Xi Jinping's 'Strike' Remarks... U.S. Expert Warns of Ominous Signs in the Pacific

"Taiwan crisis is coming, but the U.S. is unprepared"
"China may not want conflict, but time is running out"

Chinese President Xi Jinping has declared his intent to "strike" at pro-independence forces in Taiwan during an official event, raising concerns about the future of cross-strait relations. An international political expert has warned that this is an "ominous sign."

Hal Brands, a professor of international politics and foreign affairs at Johns Hopkins University, wrote in an op-ed for Bloomberg that "a Taiwan crisis is coming, and President Xi may not wait." He noted, "Ominous developments are unfolding in the Pacific, and the United States is entirely unprepared."

Previously, on July 1 (local time), during a speech commemorating the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, President Xi stated, "We will resolutely strike at Taiwan independence and separatist forces and oppose foreign interference." He also emphasized his continued pursuit of unification with Taiwan, describing Taiwan's unification as a "historic mission" and a "shared aspiration."

On the morning of the 1st (local time), Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen drinking tea during his speech at the 105th anniversary celebration of the founding of the Communist Party of China held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China. Photo by Yonhap News.

Professor Brands noted, "Earlier this month, the China Coast Guard approached three vessels in international waters off eastern Taiwan, demanding they disclose their point of departure and destination." He further analyzed, "China is asserting the right to monitor traffic in waters near Taiwan. This could be a precursor to a crisis that may unfold within the next one to two years."

He added, "U.S. intelligence agencies have already warned that a Taiwan crisis could occur within a few years." Professor Brands explained, "President Xi has ordered the Chinese military to prepare for action against Taiwan by 2027. China's goal is to achieve unification with Taiwan without war, but the military is being readied as a hammer in case war becomes necessary."

In particular, he pointed out, "President Xi seeks to undermine the morale of the people of Taiwan and to instill doubts about U.S. support. He would prefer that an isolated and vulnerable Taiwanese society accept forced unification, but time is of the essence. At 73 years old, President Xi does not have much time left."

He further emphasized, "The situation may appear calm now, and U.S.-China relations may seem to be in a temporary truce, but we must not be deceived." He urged the U.S. government to approve arms sales to Taiwan and to signal a strong commitment to Taiwan's security in dealings with President Xi.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.