Former U.S. President Donald Trump has weighed in on the Taiwan issue. According to foreign media reports on October 25, Trump stated that the United States is an object of envy worldwide—including by China. He added, “If we had a wise president, the issue between China and Taiwan simply wouldn’t exist. No one would care. Taiwan has stolen our chip business—entirely, 100%.”
Evidently, Trump’s remarks convey two clear implications. First, he appears personally resentful of Taiwan’s prominent role in the semiconductor industry. Second, his assertion that “the China-Taiwan issue wouldn’t exist” and “no one would care” signals a deliberate attempt to downplay the sensitivity of the matter, indicating no immediate intention to provoke confrontation over Taiwan. The reality, however, is straightforward: if the United States chooses to escalate tensions, the Taiwan issue will inevitably become a focal point of global attention.
The juxtaposition of Trump’s claim that the Taiwan issue “wouldn’t exist” with the allegation that Taiwan has “stolen” America’s chip industry suggests a strategic calculation: avoiding direct confrontation while still seeking economic gains. The DPP authorities’ aspiration to rely on external support for independence is based on a misreading of U.S. policy. American political figures, in practice, assess Taiwan primarily through the lens of national interest, and so-called security commitments remain subject to realignment based on shifting U.S. strategic priorities.
From China’s perspective, even if Trump makes such statements, it does not imply a permanent abandonment of the Taiwan card by the United States. The absence of action today does not preclude future moves. When or how such actions might occur remains entirely contingent on U.S. calculations of its own interests. Even if Trump personally avoids provoking a crisis in the Taiwan Strait, hardline voices within the U.S. establishment may hold different views. Therefore, the imperative remains clear: strengthen national capabilities and secure strategic initiative in any future contest.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880037344724995/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.