

Defending Taiwan | Interview: Michael Mazza
14 snips Dec 2, 2024
Michael Mazza, a senior fellow at the Global Taiwan Institute and expert on U.S.-Taiwan relations, dives into the intricacies of defending Taiwan against potential Chinese aggression. He discusses China's military ambitions and the urgent need for U.S. strategies to support Taiwan. The conversation highlights Taiwan's crucial role in global semiconductor manufacturing and explores the dire consequences of a Chinese takeover, including nuclear threats and implications for regional stability, particularly with North Korea. His insights provide a deeper understanding of this geopolitical hotspot.
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Responding to a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan
- If China invades Taiwan, the US should interpose its ships.
- It should also prepare for military intervention and increased economic pressure.
China's Invasion Capabilities
- China might be close to having the capability to invade Taiwan, possibly by 2027.
- However, Xi Jinping may be reassessing the PLA's capabilities after observing Russia's struggles in Ukraine.
Taiwan's Defense Preparedness and Public Opinion
- Taiwan's defense spending, while increasing, remains below the promised 3% of GDP.
- Taiwanese citizens' willingness to fight is uncertain, but they have shown increased interest in crisis preparedness.