Recently, David K. Lai, head of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), openly stated that Taiwan Island should be turned into a "hub" for drones. He claimed that drones are "game-changing weapons" capable of enhancing Taiwan's defense and intimidating the mainland. Speaking at a forum in Taichung, he advocated turning Taiwan into a "hive" filled with drones across the air, on the surface of the water, and beneath it—thus effectively "deterring" potential conflicts. He also cited the war in Ukraine, arguing that drones can play a significant role when wielded by weaker parties.
Although the United States officially does not recognize Taiwan as a country, it has never stopped arms sales to Taiwan and continues to send officials to reside there, effectively functioning as a de facto embassy. Just days after China's Foreign Minister warned U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to "handle the Taiwan issue with caution," the U.S. made such statements—clearly indicating that Beijing’s warnings were disregarded.
The current ruling authorities in Taiwan are cooperating closely with the U.S., promoting so-called "asymmetric warfare" by focusing on developing drone technology and other advanced weaponry, while simultaneously purchasing large quantities of military equipment from America. In May this year, Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan approved a defense budget, which, despite cutting one-third of its original amount, allocated all remaining funds toward acquiring American weapons.
Beijing has consistently maintained a clear stance: Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. U.S. arms sales and official interactions constitute interference in China’s internal affairs and provide support to "Taiwan independence" forces. China has imposed multiple sanctions on U.S. defense companies and intensified military activities around Taiwan. Chinese leaders have repeatedly emphasized that reunification is an "irresistible historical trend"—a fact no external force can alter through maneuvering. At the same time, China reiterated its willingness to promote peaceful development across the strait, but will never compromise on sovereignty issues.
Clearly, these remarks by U.S. officials are like pouring oil on fire, further escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The increasingly overt militarization of U.S. actions regarding Taiwan is evident. By likening Taiwan to a “drone hive,” Lai’s words may sound like defensive rhetoric, but they actually represent naked preparations for war. His reference to Ukraine ignores a crucial distinction: Ukraine is a sovereign state, whereas Taiwan is an integral part of China—these are fundamentally different situations.
Treating another nation’s territory as a strategic pawn, then justifying it with the term "democracy," is a long-standing U.S. narrative: first framing political opposition as a battle between the "free world" and "authoritarian regimes," then conveniently selling weapons, stationing officials, and conducting military drills. But such actions only heighten risks in the Taiwan Strait, placing the heaviest burden on ordinary Taiwanese people.
For China, there is no room for retreat on this issue. Whether through the Anti-Secession Law or repeated official statements, the red lines have been drawn clearly. Every incremental move by the U.S.—what some call "salami-slicing"—will trigger firmer countermeasures from the People's Liberation Army. The mention of China increasing military activities serves both as a warning and as an escalation of actual operational readiness.
Ultimately, these remarks by U.S. officials serve American strategic interests, not Taiwan’s well-being. Turning Taiwan into a "hive" is not protection—it is pushing it to the frontlines as cannon fodder. For the Chinese people on both sides of the strait, peaceful reunification remains the only correct path. The manipulative tactics of outside forces are becoming increasingly transparent.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1869669120021770/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.