by Marti Haffner Associate Editor TAIPEI — The average annual temperature in Taiwan reached a record high of 24.97 C in 2024, making it the warmest year on record, the local meteorological department said Tuesday. This figure is 1.66 degrees above the century-long average. All months except December recorded above-normal temperatures, the meteorological department told…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Is America Testing China’s ‘Red Lines’ on Taiwan? In recent years, tensions between the United States and China have escalated significantly, particularly regarding Taiwan. As one of the most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints in the region, Taiwan’s status is a matter of both national pride and strategic interest for China. Meanwhile,…
Taiwan is in the process of developing a hypersonic missile derived from the Ching Tien (擎天) supersonic cruise missile, with a Czech-manufactured truck tentatively chosen as its launch vehicle, according to a source reported yesterday. The Ching Tien, previously known as Yun Feng (雲峰, “Cloud Peak”), is a domestically designed missile with a range of…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In recent statements, officials from Mainland China have called on Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to stop hindering cross-Strait tourism, emphasizing the importance of open exchanges and mutual understanding between the two regions. This appeal comes against the backdrop of increasing tensions between the two sides, particularly regarding political ideologies…
In an era where global connectivity hinges on air travel, Taiwan’s participation in international aviation security and management organizations is not just beneficial; it is essential for the safety and efficiency of the global aviation industry. Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, Taiwan has demonstrated its capability and commitment to aviation safety, making a compelling case for…
US President-elect Donald Trump has requested that the Supreme Court delay the implementation of a law that would ban TikTok unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sell it to a non-Chinese buyer. The firm has challenged the legislation, arguing that it infringes on the free speech of more than 170 million Americans who use the app,…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Taiwan’s Presidential Office Conducts First ‘Tabletop’ Simulation of Chinese Military Escalation In a significant move to bolster national security and enhance preparedness, Taiwan’s Presidential Office recently conducted its inaugural “tabletop” simulation exercise focused on a potential military escalation by China. This exercise underscores Taipei’s commitment to proactive defense strategies amid…
NATO will increase its military activities in the Baltic Sea following a string of submarine cable disruptions, the alliance’s chief, Mark Rutte, has said. The secretary general made his statement following a phone call with Finnish President Alexander Stubb on Friday. Helsinki has launched an investigation after the Estlink 2 undersea power cable was damaged…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In the face of increasing tensions with China, Taiwan is not only bolstering its military defenses but also making comprehensive preparations across various sectors to ensure national resilience. The island’s strategy highlights a multi-pronged approach encompassing economic, diplomatic, technological, and societal dimensions to mitigate the impact of a potential invasion…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor With less than a month before United States President Joe Biden leaves the White House, his administration announced another round of military aid and arms sales to China’s Taiwan region over the weekend, totaling more than $800 million. It was the 19th round of such arms sales and assistance to…