The United States has asked China to stop “provocative” actions around Taiwan as tension heightens.

The American government accuses the fellow world power of aggravation through its military drills.

The White House said China’s efforts “to change the status quo” was a significant escalation.

“They are provocative, irresponsible, and raise the risk of miscalculation”, a spokesperson told Reuters.

“They are also at odds with our long-standing goal of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.”

On Saturday, Taiwanese jets charged toward 20 Chinese aircraft, including 14 that crossed the median line.

The defence ministry also noticed 14 Chinese military ships conducting activities around the Strait.

Taiwans’ government noted that the exercises appear to simulate an attack within and around its territory.

China’s military force, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) commenced drills after the visit of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan.

The Chinese government said no country should misestimate its “strong will and great capability to defend state sovereignty and to achieve national reunification”.