Taiwan will not agree to a 50-50 chip production deal with the US, and frankly, it’s not surprising. The core of the issue seems to stem from a suspicion, a wariness, that the US might be attempting a form of economic extortion. Why would Taiwan, which holds such a critical position in the global chip supply chain, willingly give up a significant portion of that power?
It feels like the US is attempting to leverage its perceived role as Taiwan’s protector, using it as a means to extract concessions. The underlying fear is that the US, once it secures a piece of the pie, could shift its stance, potentially leaving Taiwan vulnerable.… Continue reading
The US Commerce Secretary recently revealed the Trump administration is pressuring Taiwan to relocate 50% of its chip production to the US, citing national security concerns due to China’s threats. The Secretary emphasized that the US’s reliance on Taiwan for nearly all critical chips leaves it vulnerable to economic and defense challenges. While acknowledging the immense difficulty of this endeavor, with experts suggesting it could take decades, the administration’s aim is to significantly boost US chip production to achieve greater supply chain independence. Taiwan must be convinced to abandon its dominance as a global chip supplier for this to work.
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President Xi Jinping is urging the United States to alter its long-standing description of its position on Taiwan’s independence. This demand, if met, would represent a significant diplomatic victory for China. Beijing has requested that the U.S. government formally state its “opposition” to Taiwan’s independence. This information was revealed by a source familiar with the matter, who preferred to remain anonymous.
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According to a classified US military intelligence report, China is rapidly expanding its commercial ferry fleet, potentially for an invasion of Taiwan. The report reveals modifications to these vessels, enabling them to carry tanks and participate in amphibious operations, and China is building over 70 large ferries by the end of 2026. The US intelligence community has expressed concern over these preparations, with a Pentagon report considering these ferries as potential military targets in a conflict scenario. This assessment has prompted debate within the US Indo-Pacific Command, weighing the legality of targeting civilian vessels against the potential military advantage China gains from this dual-use strategy.
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Newly obtained documents reveal a deepening military collaboration between Russia and China. Russia has committed to training and equipping a Chinese airborne battalion, suggesting a significant transfer of military expertise. This includes sharing knowledge on airdropping armored vehicles, which analysts believe could enhance China’s capabilities in potential operations, specifically those involving Taiwan. This cooperation highlights the evolving strategic partnership between the two nations.
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President Donald Trump is reportedly considering withholding $400 million in military aid to Taiwan amid ongoing trade negotiations and a potential summit with Beijing. This decision, which has yet to be finalized, would represent a significant shift from the US’s historical support for the democratic island. The talks between Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, are scheduled to take place, with tariffs and the future of TikTok also on the agenda. These developments have sparked concern in Taiwan about the continued strength of US commitment to its defense, despite reassurances from US officials.
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Bloomberg reports that China’s President Xi Jinping has initiated the largest purge of military leaders since Mao Zedong, removing nearly a fifth of the generals he personally appointed. This has resulted in the smallest number of members on the Central Military Commission in the post-Mao era, raising questions about the implications of Xi’s actions. The purge follows concerns about corruption within the military, which has led to investigations and the ousting of high-ranking officers, including those appointed to key positions. With a major military parade approaching, the world is watching to see if Xi trusts his own generals, while also assessing the impact of the shakeup on China’s military readiness.
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“China Very Patient, Xi Won’t Invade Taiwan During My Presidency’: Trump” – this statement is definitely… something. It’s the kind of comment that elicits a range of reactions, from a nervous chuckle to a deep sigh of exasperation. The crux of the matter seems to be the suggestion that China’s actions, specifically regarding Taiwan, hinge on the presence of a single individual in the White House.
The implications of this statement are vast and, frankly, a little unsettling. It basically suggests that a major geopolitical decision, a potential act of war, is being deferred based on the political timeline of a particular leader.… Continue reading
Trump says Xi told him China will not invade Taiwan while he is US president, which, honestly, sparks a series of immediate, critical thoughts. The first one that pops into mind is, well, *of course* he said that, right? The idea that any country planning an invasion would announce their intentions is ludicrous. It’s not like Xi would schedule a press conference to declare, “Alright everyone, we’re invading Taiwan on Tuesday!” It’s just common sense.
Now, the lie detector bit is telling. It implies that Trump, if he’s actually relaying this conversation accurately, is incredibly easily manipulated. He seems to swallow everything whole, without a second thought or a need to verify.… Continue reading
The United States reportedly blocked Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te from making a stopover in New York while en route to Central America, according to The Financial Times. This decision comes amid sensitive trade talks with China, which strongly objects to any official U.S. engagement with Taiwanese leadership. Although Lai’s office stated no current overseas travel plans exist, sources indicate further arrangements for a U.S. visit may be made later this year. The situation is complicated by the Taiwan Relations Act and ongoing trade disagreements between the U.S. and China.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker