America Is Back?

[Valin]

Power Line

John Hinderaker

April 1, 2021

Democratic politicians and their press adjunct are promoting the absurd idea that “America is back!” As though we had gone away during the Trump years, when American interests were pursued aggressively, successfully and peacefully–a pretty good combination. What is actually happening now is that we have a senile president surrounded by leftists who have no interest in defending American interests or American allies. Hostile powers are moving to fill the vacuum.

The London Times has a sobering account of China’s designs on Taiwan: “With Hong Kong subdued, Xi’s gaze turns to defiant Taiwan.”

(Snip)

It is predictable that Chinese pressure on Taiwan will increase, with no meaningful response from Washington. Maybe the CCP will invade one of these days, at considerable cost. As the Times says, “Taiwan is no easy military target and Beijing would prefer to subdue the island — which is separated from the mainland by at least 100 miles of fast-running strait — without firing a bullet.” Joe Biden’s election makes that goal–along with others sought by the Chinese Communist Party–more attainable.

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Could the PRC successfully invade Taiwan? Yes, the question is At What Cost? The Last Time the PLA engaged in a War was 1978 against Vietnam. They lost. Amphibious operation are Very Hard to do, particularly if you have no experience, the opponent is prepared.