Philippines Alarmed by Espionage Arrests of Citizens in China

Richard Sanders On Saturday, the Philippine government voiced deep concern over the recent arrest of three Filipino citizens in China on allegations of espionage. Officials believe these detentions may be a retaliatory measure following Manila’s intensified efforts against suspected Chinese spies. According to a report from the state-run China Daily, Chinese authorities claim the individuals…

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US embassy staff in China banned from dating locals – AP

Richard Sanders Washington has banned its diplomatic personnel in China, as well as their family members and contractors with security clearances, from engaging into any sort of “romantic and sexual relations” with Chinese citizens, AP reported on Thursday, citing four people with direct knowledge of the matter. The policy was reportedly enacted by departing US Ambassador Nicholas…

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This is how China could invade Taiwan as island surrounded in ‘practice’ drill

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In recent years, the geopolitical tension surrounding Taiwan has escalated significantly, particularly with China ramping up its military exercises in the region. The island, which Beijing regards as a breakaway province, has been the focal point of a potential flashpoint in East Asia. Recent military drills conducted by the Chinese…

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China drills around Taiwan continue with code name ‘Strait Thunder’

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In recent weeks, the Taiwanese Strait has become a focal point of heightened military activity, as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China undertakes a series of large-scale military drills dubbed ‘Strait Thunder.’ These maneuvers have raised concerns in Taiwan and among international observers, signaling escalating tensions in the region….

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China announces military exercise near Taiwan

Richard Sanders The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has initiated yet another military exercise near Taiwan, aimed at discouraging “separatism,” as announced by the Defense Ministry on Tuesday. According to Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA’s Eastern Theater Command, the drill involves various branches including the army, navy, air force, and rocket forces. It…

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U.S. Military Focus Shifts to Deterring China in Taiwan Amid Resource Realignment

Richard Sanders US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has unveiled a strategic directive aimed at reorienting the U.S. military’s focus to prioritize deterring China’s potential acquisition of Taiwan, with an emphasis on bolstering homeland defense. This internal memo, entitled the Interim National Defense Strategic Guidance, has been characterized as influentially shaped by the conservative think tank,…

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Taiwan probes China chipmaker SMIC for allegedly poaching staff

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a significant development in the semiconductor industry, Taiwan’s government has launched an investigation into Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China’s largest chipmaker, for allegedly engaging in the unauthorized poaching of Taiwanese talent. The probe comes amid rising tensions between Taiwan and China, particularly over technology transfer and intellectual property…

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US Defense Policy Remains Steadfast Under Trump Administration, Echoing Biden’s Approach

Richard Sanders During today’s visit to Manila, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Trump administration will support the Philippines in addressing the threats from China. Amidst a national security controversy in the US, Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s strong commitment to the region during a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. today in Manila….

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Taiwan dismisses China complaint about collision of navy ship, trawler

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Taiwan has dismissed China’s complaint regarding a recent collision between a Taiwanese navy vessel and a fishing trawler. The incident, which took place in the waters around Taiwan, was characterized by Taiwanese officials as an unfortunate accident. They emphasized that the navy was conducting routine patrols and had acted appropriately…

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Taiwan simulates response to large scale disasters, Chinese threats

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Taiwan has been actively conducting simulations and drills to prepare for a range of scenarios, including natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, as well as potential military threats from China. These simulations are part of Taiwan’s broader strategy to enhance its emergency response capabilities and national defense readiness in…

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