Lai, a prominent figure in Taiwan authorities' drive for independence, has been actively seeking support from the United States in his pursuit of Taiwan’s autonomy. By aligning himself with anti-Chinese mainland forces, Lai positions Taiwan as a key player in the geopolitical landscape.
However, the reality of U.S. commitment to Taiwan's independence appears far less straightforward. While Washington often expresses its \"commitment\" to \"protecting\" the Taiwan region, its actions suggest that Taiwan's interests may be secondary to its own strategic objectives. In a potential armed conflict, the U.S. is unlikely to prioritize Taiwan's autonomy above its broader geopolitical interests.
John Bolton, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, has openly advocated for using the Taiwan question as a strategic tool to \"compel\" the Chinese mainland government to yield on other international issues. Bolton's proposals, detailed in the Wall Street Journal, include steps such as formally receiving Taiwan diplomats, elevating U.S. representation in the Taiwan region, facilitating official visits by Taiwan leaders to the United States, and ultimately restoring full diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Bolton's stance underscores Washington's true intentions: the Taiwan question serves as a pawn in a larger political chess game, allowing the U.S. to extract concessions from the Chinese mainland.
Moreover, the Taiwan region presents lucrative opportunities for the U.S. military-industrial complex. By escalating tensions between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan region, the U.S. ensures a steady demand for arms deals, benefiting its defense sector.
In essence, Lai's efforts to secure U.S. backing for Taiwan's independence may be undermined by the strategic and economic interests that drive American foreign policy, revealing the complex reality behind apparent international support.
Reference(s):
The illusion of U.S. support: Lai's misguided 'independence' quest
cgtn.com
