A Chinese PLA Navy nuclear-powered submarine surfaced unexpectedly in the Taiwan Strait, raising concerns in Taiwan about potential military pressure. The submarine, identified as a Type 094, was spotted near Quemoy Island and was escorted by a PLA cruiser towards the mainland. While some believe the surfacing was for routine maintenance, others see it as a display of force against Taiwan’s new leader, William Lai Ching-te, who has taken a stance against Chinese claims on the island. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between China and Taiwan, with the PLA recently conducting war games simulating a blockade of the island.