Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Sunday that it had identified 35 Chinese military aircraft, comprising fighters and bombers, heading south towards the island as part of exercises in the Pacific. This marks the second consecutive day of such sightings.

China regards Taiwan, which operates under a democratic government, as part of its territory, despite strong opposition from Taipei. The Chinese military frequently conducts operations in the air and waters surrounding the island to assert its sovereignty claims.

China’s defense ministry did not provide a response regarding these missions, which come just days before the U.S. presidential election on Tuesday. The United States is legally obligated to supply Taiwan with defensive capabilities, and recent arms sales, including a $2 billion missile system announced last month, have provoked anger from Beijing. According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, as of 9 a.m. (0100 GMT) on Sunday, it had detected 37 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighters, nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, and drones.

A total of 35 aircraft were reported to have flown to Taiwan’s southwest, south, and southeast regions, entering the Western Pacific for long-range training exercises, according to the ministry. The ministry also indicated that it had deployed its own forces to monitor the situation.

On Saturday, the ministry announced that China had conducted another “joint combat readiness patrol” involving warships and aircraft in proximity to Taiwan.

Last month, China conducted extensive military exercises around Taiwan, which it characterized as a warning against “separatist actions,” prompting criticism from both the Taiwanese and U.S. governments.

Beijing has expressed strong disapproval of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who assumed office in May, labeling him a “separatist.” Lai maintains that only the people of Taiwan have the authority to determine their future and has consistently proposed discussions with Beijing, only to be met with rejection.