Taiwan’s divided politics undermine defense resolve as Trump returns

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Taiwan’s political landscape has long been marked by division, particularly between the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the more China-friendly Kuomintang (KMT). This polarization can complicate the island’s defense strategy, especially in the context of heightened tensions with China and a changing geopolitical landscape influenced by U.S. politics. With…

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Taiwan Welcomes US Support Amid Tensions with China

Richard Sanders The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed its appreciation for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s remarks regarding the US’s “serious concern over China’s coercive actions against Taiwan” and its aggressive behavior in the South China Sea, following a call with his Chinese counterpart. In a statement, MOFA highlighted that the Chinese Ministry…

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Former General Charged Over ‘Invasion’ Group

Richard Sanders A retired lieutenant general has been indicted for allegedly using Chinese funds to recruit military personnel for an “armed” group intended to support potential invading Chinese forces, according to prosecutors. Kao An-kuo was one of six individuals charged under the National Security Act, as stated by the High Prosecutors’ Office. The group reportedly…

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Chinese satellite launch no threat: MND

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Chinese Satellite Launch Poses No Threat, says Ministry of National Defense In a recent statement that has garnered attention, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) emphasized that the latest satellite launch by China does not pose any imminent threat to national security or regional stability. This assertion comes amidst ongoing…

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Exploring Taiwan’s tense relationship with China

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Taiwan’s relationship with China has long been a contentious and complex issue, rooted in a historical backdrop that spans over a century. As tensions escalate and international interests converge, the situation continues to evolve, impacting regional and global dynamics. This article delves into the intricacies of Taiwan’s relationship with China,…

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Rubio Takes a Stand Against Coercive Actions in Asia on First Day as Secretary of State

Jake Sanders On his inaugural day as Secretary of State, Marco Rubio issued a warning alongside Japan, India, and Australia against coercive actions in Asia, seemingly directed at China over its maritime activities. Rubio met with his counterparts from the Quad in Washington, just after President Donald Trump’s inauguration, where he pledged to counter China’s…

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Taiwan’s ex-presidential candidate charged with corruption

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a significant turn of events in Taiwan’s political landscape, former presidential candidate Ko Wen-je has been formally charged with corruption, casting a shadow over the upcoming elections and raising questions about the integrity of the nation’s political systems. The decision was announced by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office, following…

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EU state’s PM warns of new ‘Maidan’

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused the political opposition of preparing a ‘Maidan’ in the country, referring to the violent Western-backed coup in Kiev in 2014 that led to the overthrow of democratically-elected Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich. Speaking at a joint press conference with Hungarian Prime minister Viktor Orban in Bratislava on Tuesday, Fico based…

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Trump planning early China trip – WSJ

Richard Sanders US President-elect Donald Trump wants to visit China in his first 100 days in office to improve relations with Xi Jinping, as the prospect of a new trade war looms, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday citing sources. The trip would aim to deepen ties with the Chinese leader in the face…

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