School of War
Ep 141: Matt Pottinger on the Defense of Taiwan (Boiling Moat #1)
Sep 3, 2024
Matt Pottinger, a distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution and Chairman of FDD's China Program, dives into the urgent defense of Taiwan. He analyzes how a potential conflict could ignite and the crucial need for deterrence against China. Pottinger draws historical parallels, discussing military preparedness and its paradoxical effects on peace. He warns against the myth of accidental wars, emphasizing that leadership decisions shape conflicts. The conversation highlights Taiwan's strategic importance in global supply chains and the necessity for coordinated defense among allies.
43:19
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Quick takeaways
- The critical importance of defending Taiwan is underscored by China's intent to annex the island, posing profound geopolitical and economic threats globally.
- Effective deterrence against China relies on demonstrating robust military readiness and coordination among allies to discourage aggressive actions towards Taiwan.
Deep dives
The Urgency of Taiwan's Defense
The discussion emphasizes the imperative of defending Taiwan in the face of escalating threats from China. Xi Jinping has made it clear that the unification of Taiwan is central to his vision for the 'great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,' indicating that the annexation of Taiwan is a prioritized goal. Recent Chinese rhetoric has amplified this threat, and actions taken by Beijing, such as supporting Russian aggression in Ukraine and increasing military pressure on the Philippines, signal a broader strategy aimed at testing international resolve. The potential consequences of a Chinese takeover of Taiwan include severe geopolitical shifts, economic repercussions, and a significant blow to global democracies.
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