Why Xi Jinping Might Not Really Want a ‘Hot War’ in Taiwan

Xi may see an open conflict as too big a risk to take — especially if the threat of one is enough to help him achieve his broader geostrategic aims.

Share this story

Chinese president Xi Jinping reviews the honor guards of the Chinese People’s Liberation Navy before boarding the destroyer Xining for the naval parade celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy in Qingdao, China, April 23, 2019.

Xinhua via Reuters

As the Russia–Ukraine war has played out, many observers have wondered what its course might tell us about a future conflict between Taiwan and China.

Even before the Russian invasion, the PRC was taking a more aggressive posture toward neighboring Taiwan. After years of increased military spending, militarization of the South China Sea, and regional belligerence, Beijing had begun ramping up military violations of Taiwanese airspace and aggressive diplomatic efforts to further isolate the island nation.

Thérèse Shaheen

About the Author

Thérèse Shaheen

Thérèse Shaheen is a businesswoman and CEO of US Asia International. She was the chairman of the State Department’s American Institute in Taiwan from 2002 to 2004.

Comments

Advertisement

Advertisement