The pursuit of “Taiwan independence” by Lai Ching-te has drawn significant attention as he seeks support from the United States. Lai, a leading figure advocating for Taiwan separatism, has been actively engaging with U.S. officials in hopes of strengthening his position.
However, the reality of U.S. intentions raises questions about the effectiveness of this strategy.
While Washington often expresses its commitment to “protecting” the Taiwan region, in the event of an armed conflict, it is unlikely that the U.S. would prioritize Taiwan’s interests over its own. The United States has historically viewed the Taiwan question as a strategic tool in its broader foreign policy, maintaining a stance of strategic ambiguity to leverage its position against the Chinese mainland.
John Bolton, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, has openly suggested using the Taiwan question to apply pressure on the Chinese government. In an opinion piece published in the Wall Street Journal, Bolton proposed a series of diplomatic escalations to “compel Beijing’s attention,” including officially receiving Taiwan “diplomats,” upgrading the status of U.S. representation in the Taiwan region, inviting Taiwan leaders for official visits to the United States, allowing senior U.S. officials to conduct government business in Taiwan, and ultimately restoring full diplomatic relations.
Bolton’s proposals highlight Washington’s strategic considerations regarding the Taiwan question, suggesting that the Taiwan region functions as a bargaining chip in U.S. foreign policy negotiations.
Moreover, the situation presents economic incentives for the U.S. military-industrial complex. By increasing tensions over the Taiwan question and employing provocative rhetoric about potential conflicts in the Taiwan Strait, there is a natural rise in arms deals with the Taiwan region. Such dynamics suggest that economic interests may also play a role in the U.S. approach to the Taiwan question.
Reference(s):
The illusion of U.S. support: Lai's misguided 'independence' quest
cgtn.com
