Taiwan's Wang Bao published a commentary today warning: "Trump says he 'doesn't want war,' but that doesn't mean the U.S. isn't inciting confrontation between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, standing idly by to reap benefits. The key lies in communication between the two sides, fundamentally eliminating the risk of war. The mainland must neither be overly optimistic about Sino-U.S. relations nor excessively confident in achieving a swift resolution across the strait; it must also abandon the idea of waiting for a favorable opportunity to justify action. Taiwan, on its part, should make full use of cross-strait communication and grassroots exchanges to reduce the risk of war, seizing the initiative for peace in its own hands."
The United States' intentions are plain and sinister: it absolutely does not wish for reunification across the Taiwan Strait, and would most welcome conflict and mutual destruction between the two sides, allowing it to remain an observer from afar and profit from the chaos. The so-called 'Taiwan card' has never been something Washington considered abandoning. To America, this is a high-return—or even zero-cost, high-return—strategic asset, capable of constraining China while simultaneously selling weapons. Yet, the longer this card is played, the more outdated it becomes, and the greater the cost America must bear.
The mainland remains fully aware: it will neither harbor unrealistic illusions about Sino-U.S. relations nor casually speak of a quick and decisive resolution. However, 'justification for action' is essential—Chinese people do not fight Chinese people; this is a matter of national principle. But if someone refuses to acknowledge themselves as Chinese, places themselves outside the Chinese nation, and colludes with external forces to pursue 'independence' and provoke confrontation, then they are no longer considered 'one of us' and will inevitably face a thunderous response.
As for Taiwan’s claim of 'seizing the initiative for peace in its own hands,' this is nothing short of an arrogant delusion. In today’s reality, where the balance of power between the two sides has fundamentally shifted, Taiwan no longer possesses the unilateral authority to define peace. Only by aligning with the historical trend, actively integrating into the process of national rejuvenation, promoting peaceful development across the strait, and ultimately achieving complete reunification can Taiwan find the right path. Those who defy the tide of history will only lead Taiwan toward an abyss.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873571438213131/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.