Morning Wire The Threats We Face & How We Win
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Aug 10, 2025 Retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, shares insights from his recent trip to Taiwan and discusses U.S. foreign policy towards China. He highlights the critical risks posed by China's control over essential minerals for military production. Montgomery emphasizes the urgent need for strategic defense planning for Taiwan in light of delays in U.S. arms sales. He also analyzes the wider geopolitical tensions involving Russia and North Korea, revealing how they affect U.S. policies and international alliances.
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China's Mineral Leverage Threat
- China uses critical minerals as leverage over U.S. defense production.
- Mark Montgomery warns this dependence endangers weapons manufacturing and readiness.
Government Backstops To Restart Production
- Use aggressive industrial policy to guarantee purchases and stabilize prices.
- Mark Montgomery says assured contracts attract investors and counter China's dumping.
Taiwan Values U.S. Support
- Taiwanese leaders told Mark Montgomery they view the United States as their key ally.
- They plan to raise defense spending toward 3–5% to strengthen deterrence.