#237 Taiwan Voted for WAR With China | Grant Newsham
Jan 22, 2024
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Former Marine intelligence officer and author Grant Newsham discusses Taiwan's recent presidential election, China's framing of it as a decision between war and peace, and the shifting stance of Taiwan towards China. The podcast also explores strategies to prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the involvement of the US military, the need for a charismatic president, wealth redistribution in China, practical advice on finding reliable news sources, and the power of anger and engagement on social media.
Taiwan's 2024 presidential election reflected a desire for independence from China and rejection of closer ties.
Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will shift strategy towards political and economic pressure on Taiwan.
China's increasing influence in the Pacific highlights the need for proactive measures to counteract it.
Deep dives
Taiwan Election: Taiwanese people choose war and decline
In the recent Taiwan election, the Taiwanese people voted for a new president, rejecting the choice of peace and prosperity offered by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The results indicated a shift in public sentiment, with the majority of Taiwanese people expressing a desire for independence from China. The Chinese Communist Party attempted to influence the outcome of the election through threats and intimidation, but ultimately failed to sway the voters. The election results have humiliated the CCP, revealing their inability to obtain Taiwan peacefully. The situation now puts Taiwan and China on diverging paths, with Taiwan becoming increasingly resistant to Chinese influence.
The CCP's Next Move: Political and Economic Pressure on Taiwan
With their military threats having little impact, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is likely to shift their strategy towards political and economic pressure on Taiwan. While the military coercion may be temporarily put on hold, the CCP will attempt to obstruct Taiwan's new president's efforts to increase defense spending, strengthen ties with other countries, and improve their military capabilities. China will continue to exert political subversion and economic pressure to undermine support for Taiwan and its democracy. The objective remains the same: the eventual unification of Taiwan with China, but through non-voluntary means.
China's Expansion in the Pacific Islands: Nauru's Switch in Allegiances
China has been rapidly expanding its presence in the Pacific island nations, using economic influence, political influence, and bribery. In the recent Taiwan election, Nauru, a small but strategically important country in the Pacific, switched allegiances from Taiwan to China immediately after the election. This move is seen as a blow to the United States and a sign of China's increasing influence in the region. It highlights the need for countries like the United States to take a more proactive role in countering China's expansion and supporting their allies in the Pacific.
Timeline of a Possible Chinese Invasion
While the precise timing of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is uncertain, there is growing concern that it could happen in the near future. A former Marine Intelligence Officer predicts that China may make a significant move by May, particularly when the current Taiwanese president steps down and the new president is inaugurated. China's next move is expected to involve larger military exercises near Taiwan, along with intensified political subversion and disinformation campaigns. The objective remains unchanged: Xi Jinping intends to achieve reunification with Taiwan, either through force or coercion.
The Importance of Taking a Strong Stance on Taiwan
To prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan and protect freedom in the region, it is essential for countries like the United States to take a firm and decisive stance. This includes recognizing Taiwan as a separate and independent country, as well as reassessing economic and business ties with China. Economic pressure, along with clear communication of consequences and personal costs to top Chinese officials, can help deter aggression and protect Taiwan's democracy. It is crucial for the international community to stand up for their values, defend their interests, and support Taiwan in the face of growing Chinese aggression.
China framed Taiwan's 2024 presidential election as a decision between war and peace. And according to China, Taiwan voted for war. That's because DPP candidate William Lai, who won in a landslide, has been very open about his opposition to moving closer to China. Joining us in this episode of China Unscripted is Colonel Grant Newsham, a former Marine intelligence officer who has lived in Taiwan as part of a Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs fellowship. He’s also the author of the book When China Attacks: A Warning to America.
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