China's defense ministry says most Taiwan residents want peace

China's Ministry of National Defense said on Friday that a majority of people in the Taiwan region favor peace and oppose confrontation, blasting the Lai Ching-te authorities for pursuing "Taiwan independence" and provoking tensions.

At a regular press conference, Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, cited a poll in Taiwan showing over 60 percent of respondents were unwilling for themselves or family members to go to war, saying it reflected the public's desire for peace, development and cross-Strait exchanges. 

No one wants to serve as cannon fodder for "Taiwan independence," Zhang said, adding that separatist forces run counter to public opinion and will ultimately be swept into the dustbin of history.

Responding to speculation that the mainland might emulate U.S. actions toward Venezuela in handling Taiwan, Zhang said the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair, and external forces have no right to interfere.

Dealing with the armed elements of "Taiwan independence" would be like catching turtles in a jar, and any measures capable of severely punishing "Taiwan independence" forces remain possible, the spokesperson added.

On the South China Sea, Zhang rejected a Philippine navy report alleging expanded Chinese control, reiterating China's indisputable sovereignty and criticizing Manila for spreading false narratives to cover up its provocations.

Addressing comments by Japanese politicians warning against Japan becoming a "war state," Zhang said rising right-wing forces are pushing Japan toward re-militarization, warning that any revival of militarism threatens regional peace. He said China would work with other peace-loving countries to uphold the post–World War II order and regional stability.