David Wayne DePape has been charged with assault and attempted kidnapping, with separate state charges filed for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, elder abuse and threatening a public official.

Taiwan officials have said the drills violate United Nations rules, invade Taiwan's territorial space and are a direct challenge to free air and sea navigation.

Analysts say it remains unclear if China will fire cruise or ballistic missiles directly over the island, or attempt a blockade for the first time.

She commends Taiwan for 'being one of the freest societies in the world'.