Taiwan President's Office Denies Propaganda Claims of President Leading Military Drills.

In response to recent media reports questioning President Lai Ching-te's decision to schedule a visit to oversee military operations during the Han Kuang exercises, Presidential spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui issued a stern clarification on July 27. Kuo emphasized that, as Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of China, it is the President's duty to personally visit the scene and oversee military operations during critical training exercises, not only fulfilling their daily responsibilities, but also a constitutional obligation.

The Presidential Office expressed regret over the external criticism that labels a serious national defense operation as a "staged performance." They directly stated that such language is subjective speculation and a distorted perspective, without basis, and has unfairly tarnished the efforts of all military personnel and defense construction.

The Han Kuang exercises, as the largest and most comprehensive joint defense operation in Taiwan, have always been a critical mechanism for testing the military's readiness. From a strategic perspective, the Commander-in-Chief's on-site supervision of the exercise not only demonstrates the country's highest leader's determination to national defense and security, but also directly conveys the government's support and affirmation to frontline soldiers.

It has been a customary practice for past presidents to oversee the Han Kuang exercises during their tenure, not only demonstrating their commitment to defense supervision but also an important component in fostering consensus among the military and civilian populations.

However, in the current complex geopolitical environment and the ongoing information warfare, various rumors and criticism surrounding military exercises are emerging. Some commentators or media reports often interpret national defense issues from a politicized perspective, even degrading critical military operations as political performances. The Presidential Office's public refutation of the "staged performance" label carries significant importance, as it defends national defense autonomy and the military's dignity, preventing domestic political rhetoric from obscuring the true nature of the exercises and undermining the morale of military personnel who have long worked to enhance readiness.

National defense security transcends party politics, requiring rational oversight and support from the broader society. The Presidential Office urges the public to view military training professionally and objectively, rather than interpreting it from a biased political perspective. In the face of external threats, enhancing national defense and boosting military morale are the fundamental ways to ensure national security. Any attempts to discredit the national defense system will ultimately be counterproductive to the nation's overall interests.