TAIPEI — Taiwan is taking extensive notes on the war in Ukraine as the island government works to prepare for an invasion that could happen at any time.
The Washington Examiner attended a press conference held by Taiwanese Foreign Minister Chia-lung Lin on Thursday, where the head diplomat expounded upon the lessons learned from observing the violence unfolding in Eastern Europe.
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“When Russia invaded Ukraine, although geopolitically distant from Taiwan, Taiwan felt very closely linked to the destiny of Ukraine,” Lin said at the press event. “This war proves that we need to have peace through strength — and that God will help those who help themselves.
Lin continued, “The people of Taiwan should learn from the people of Ukraine. We need to have the determination and also the capability to defend the people of our homeland.”
Ukraine has surprised the world by holding back the invading Russian army for over three years without the direct intervention of allies’ militaries. The United States and Europe have overseen the donation of munitions, supplies, and money to the war effort.
Taiwan, which exists under the constant threat of invasion by the mainland People’s Republic of China, could possibly face the same reality if Beijing ever launched its long-planned assault on the island.
Taiwanese confidence in direct military intervention against a hypothetical invasion by China is faltering as President Donald Trump turns a cold shoulder to Taiwan. The breakdown in trust comes amid trade negotiations with the Chinese Communist Party.
President William Lai attempted to visit New York City and Dallas in July, but was waved off by the White House without public explanation.
It’s a severe deterioration for Taiwan after former President Joe Biden accidentally affirmed that the U.S. would “absolutely” protect the island in the case of an invasion.
Lin compared Russia’s justification for the war to the messaging of China, noting expansionist aspirations in both countries.
“When Russia invaded Ukraine, its excuse was that Ukraine wanted to participate in NATO — but I believe that is just an excuse,” “It’s just like the PRC trying to have verbal attacks and military intimidation against Taiwan because PRC believes that Taiwan would like to declare […] independence.”
“From this instance, we can see clearly that Russia would like recover or rejuvinate the glory of the former Soviet Union, so I believe its ambition will not just stop at Ukraine. And I believe why that is why there are so European countries who would like to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia.”
Taiwan would almost certainly be unable to match the force of the People’s Liberation Army, and a conflict between the Communists and the island would hinge upon the Taiwanese military being able to repel the invaders from a defensive position.
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Republic of China Armed Forces currently maintains an active military of about 200,000 soldiers with approximately 2,000,000 inactive soldiers in reserve.
China, by comparison, boasts an active military of 2,000,000 individuals, as well as air and naval technology several levels above the island territory’s current capabilities.