British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua is mourning the loss of two close friends who died in a car crash in Nigeria on Monday. The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulting in Joshua sustaining minor injuries and being hospitalized for observation. Concurrently, tensions are escalating in East Asia as China conducts live-fire military drills near Taiwan, prompting varied reactions, including from former US President Donald Trump.

Car Crash Details
The accident involving Joshua took place around 11 AM local time when his Lexus SUV collided with a stationary vehicle. Ogun state police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo confirmed that two passengers, Sina Ghami and Kevin 'Lateef' Ayodele, both integral members of Joshua's team, were killed. Joshua's camp released a statement expressing profound sadness and requesting privacy for the families of the deceased. The Ogun police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, which reportedly involved excessive speed.

Joshua's condition is stable, and he was seen being escorted by authorities following the accident. A video shared by local media showed him in the damaged vehicle, highlighting the severity of the incident. Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended condolences to Joshua, wishing him a speedy recovery.

China's Military Drills
Simultaneously, China has intensified military activities around Taiwan, launching live-fire drills that began on Monday. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed a significant array of military assets, including naval vessels and aircraft, in what it calls "Justice Mission 2025." These exercises aim to enhance sea-air coordination and simulate potential attacks on maritime targets, reflecting Beijing's ongoing stance toward Taiwan, which it views as a breakaway province.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported detecting numerous Chinese military assets in the vicinity, including 130 warplanes and drones. Defense Minister Wellington Koo condemned the drills, stating they disregard international norms and are intended to undermine Taiwan's defense capabilities while fostering division within Taiwanese society.

Reactions from Donald Trump
Former US President Donald Trump commented on the situation, stating he is not concerned about China's military maneuvers and emphasized his good relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump asserted that Xi has not indicated any intentions toward Taiwan, despite the ongoing military exercises. His remarks come amid a backdrop of fluctuating US-China relations, particularly regarding Taiwan's sovereignty.

Trump's comments reflect a broader uncertainty regarding US policy towards Taiwan, especially as military tensions rise. Taiwan remains a critical ally for the US, and any potential aggression from China could draw American involvement.

Wrap-up
The tragic loss of Anthony Joshua's friends in Nigeria underscores the unpredictable nature of life, while the escalating military drills around Taiwan highlight significant geopolitical tensions in East Asia. As both situations develop, the implications for local communities and international relations remain profound.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team