Podcasts about Taiwan Strait

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 57-points this morning following an 11-day Lunar New Year holiday, at 33,663 on turnover of 37.9-billion N-T. Australian warship transits Taiwan Strait, tracked by China's navy The Ministry of National Defense says it closely monitors the skies and waters around Taiwan and that the Taiwan Strait is an international waterway for which all countries enjoy the right of freedom of navigation. The statement comes after an Australian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait. Reports are citing sources as saying that the Royal Australian Navy Anzac-class frigate, Toowoomba conducted a routine (常規) transit through the Taiwan Strait" on Friday and Saturday as part of a "Regional Presence Deployment in the Indo-Pacific region." The defense ministry says it will not proactively disclose the movements of aircraft and ships of friendly allied countries. Taipei's Grand Hotel warns of possible data breach after cyberattack The Grand Hotel in Taipei is warning customers a possible data breach. The statement comes after the hotel discovered unauthorized access to its information systems last week. According to the hotel, it has issued the notice as a precaution (範圍), as the scope and targets of the attack have yet to be fully assessed. The hotel has also issued apology to the members of the public for any concern caused by the situation. The hotel says it activated its highest-level cybersecurity response measures after discovering the attack. Customers are being urged to remain on the alert against suspicious emails and to verify any messages requesting payment or personal financial information. Secret Service shoots, kills armed man at Mar-a-Lago Secret service agents and other law enforcement officials shot and killed an armed man who entered the perimeter (防衛線 / 外圍) of US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in the early hours of Sunday morning. Ira Spitzer has more. Mexico El Mencho Killed in Military Operation The Mexican army says it has killed the powerful leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in a military operation. On Sunday, troops targeted Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” in the western state of Jalisco. The operation set off hours of roadblocks (路障) and burning vehicles in Jalisco and other states. Officials say cartels often use these tactics to slow down or block military moves. The U.S. State Department has offered a reward of up to $15 million dollars for information leading to El Mencho's arrest. Milan Olympics Officially Closed The twin Olympic cauldrons in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo have been extinguished, signaling the end of the Winter Games. International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry declared the 2026 Games over in remarks to the closing ceremony in Verona. A total of 116 medal events have been held in eight Olympic sports across 16 disciplines, including the debut of ski mountaineering this year, over the course of 17 days of competition. The next Winter Games will be held in neighboring (鄰接) France, which received the Olympic flag in the official handover earlier in the ceremony. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 即日起至6月底， 透過台南住商不動產買房， 就有機會參加【買屋抽黃金】活動， 幸運得主將於7月公開抽出✨ 把成家的重要時刻， 變成雙倍黃金祝福。 台南住商不動產， 不只陪你安心成家， 還讓黃金一起到家！ 馬上預約看房 https://sofm.pse.is/8rf6jr -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

In this episode of Pekingology, CSIS Senior Fellow Henrietta Levin is joined by Charlie Edel, Senior Adviser and Australia Chair at CSIS. Charlie unpacks China's strategy towards Australia, an influential, democratic middle power that maintains strong economic ties to China and a security alliance with the United States. How has Beijing used economic coercion and inducements to try and sway Australian policy? Why has Australian public opinion turned sharply against China? And why has Australia come to see Chinese actions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait – thousands of miles from the Australian coast – as a threat to Australia's national security?

新年快樂 (Xīnnián kuàilè) from Formosa Files! As we head into the Year of the Horse, we have something different: pirates in the Taiwan Strait, both factual and fictional. We look at a Japanese woman who became a notorious pirate leader in the 1930s. And we follow the Shadow, a mysterious crime-fighter whose 1945 novel The Taiwan Joss centers around a jewel-studded statue of Koxinga (the Ming loyalist who defeated the Dutch in Tainan in the 1660s).Speaking of fiction, Plum Rain Press – our publishing side-venture – released three new titles last year: China Running Dog, The Cuttlefish, and The Wondrous Elixir of the Two Chinese Lovers. Readers thirsting for a historical novel set in Taiwan should get our debut release, A Tale of Three Tribes in Dutch Formosa.Other Formosa Files spin-offs which might be of interest are: the Chinese-language version of Formosa Files which American Eryk does with Taiwanese Eric. John is involved with two other podcasts: Bookish Asia with Plum Rain Press, and more recently the Books on Asia podcast. And Eryk has launched an English-language newspaper for southern Taiwan.Warm wishes from the Formosa Files team,Eric, Eryk, and John  

Today's episode is the third in a series of three that examine the potential consequences for China if a military operation against Taiwan were to fail. In each of these episodes, we're speaking with authors of a recently published German Marshall Fund study of the possible costs that China would incur across four different, but interrelated areas: the Chinese economy, the military, Chinese social stability, and international costs. The report is titled, “If China Attacks Taiwan” and it is posted on GMFUS.org.  Our podcast today focuses on the potential costs for the Chinese economy.To recap, the study considered two scenarios that could take place in the next five years. In the first scenario, a minor skirmish escalates into a multi-week maritime blockade of Taiwan by China. Although several dozen members of the Chinese and Taiwanese military are killed, U.S. intervention eventually forces China to de-escalate.  In the second scenario, a conflict escalates into a full-fledged invasion, with Chinese strikes on not only Taiwan but also U.S. forces in Japan and Guam. After several months of heavy fighting, Chinese forces are degraded and eventually withdraw after suffering many tens of thousands of casualties.Our guests today are Charlie Vest and Logan Wright, who co-authored the chapter on the implications for the Chinese economy of a failed operation against Taiwan. Logan is a partner at Rhodium Group and leads the firm's work on China's economy and its global impact. Charlie is an associate director at Rhodium Group, where he manages corporate research and advisory work on China.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction[02:34] Key Takeaways: China's Ambitions vs. Economic Realities [05:41] The Escalation Dilemma in China's Decisionmaking[09:56] Immediate Disruptions to Trade and FDI[13:52] Gray-Zone Military Engagement and Political Pressures[16:48] Could Beijing Underestimate the Costs of US Intervention? [24:12] Policy Tools and Limitations for Economic Stabilization and Recovery[27:19] Long-Term Economic Effects[29:24] Impact of Social Instability

Beijing urged Tokyo on Monday to adhere to peaceful development and follow the four political documents between China and Japan, which serve as the political foundation of bilateral relations.周一，中方敦促日方坚持和平发展，恪守作为中日双边关系政治基础的中日四个政治文件。Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing after media reports said that Japan's ruling coalition had won a supermajority in a parliamentary election on Sunday.外交部发言人林剑在例行记者会上作出上述表态。此前有媒体报道称，日本执政联盟在周日的国会选举中赢得超三分之二的绝对多数席位。Though the election was an internal affair of Japan, it "indicated some deep-rooted issues and trends" that are "worthy of profound reflection", Lin said.林剑表示，选举虽是日本的国内事务，但本次选举反映一些深层次的结构性问题，以及思潮动向、趋势，值得日本各界有识之士和国际社会深思。"We urge Japan's ruling authorities to face, rather than ignore, the concerns of the international community, to follow the path of peaceful development instead of returning to militarism," Lin said.“我们敦促日本执政当局正视而不是漠视国际社会的关切，走和平发展道路而不是重蹈军国主义覆辙。”林剑说。He called on Japan to "abide by the four political documents between China and Japan, rather than go back on commitments made".他同时敦促日方恪守中日四个政治文件，而不是背信弃义。Japan's ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party secured 352 seats in the snap election, surpassing the two-thirds majority needed to enact bills approved by the House of Representatives, or lower house, but rejected by the House of Councillors, or upper house, public broadcaster NHK reported early Monday.据日本公共广播机构NHK周一早些时候报道，由自民党与日本维新会组成的日本执政联盟，在此次临时选举中斩获352个席位，超过了使众议院通过的法案在遭参议院否决后仍可生效所需的三分之二多数门槛。The LDP, which had 198 seats before the election, gained control of two-thirds of the 465-member lower house on its own after winning 316 seats.选前拥有198个席位的自民党，此次独得316席，单独掌控了465个席位的众议院三分之二以上席位。Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's victory in Sunday's vote has drawn growing attention to the country's political trajectory and regional security outlook. Experts warned that the result could accelerate Japan's rightward shift, strengthen its military posture and heighten regional tensions.日本首相高市早苗在周日选举中的胜选，引发外界对日本政治走向与地区安全前景的高度关注。专家警告称，此次选举结果或将加速日本右倾化进程，强化其军事姿态，加剧地区紧张局势。Hiroshi Shiratori, a professor at Hosei University in Tokyo, told China Daily that the election result is likely to push Japan to further advance its security and intelligence agenda.日本法政大学教授白鸟浩接受《中国日报》采访时表示，选举结果可能推动日本进一步推进其安保与情报相关议程。Since taking office in October, Takaichi has not made a clear commitment in the Diet — the Japanese parliament- to uphold Japan's long-standing Three Non-Nuclear Principles — not possessing nuclear weapons, not producing them and not permitting their entry into the country — but instead has moved to increase defense spending and revise key security documents.高市早苗自去年10月就任首相以来，并未在日本国会明确承诺坚守日本长期奉行的无核三原则（不拥有、不制造、不运进核武器），反而着手增加防卫开支、修订核心安保文件。On the issue of constitutional revision, Shiratori noted that the LDP's acquisition of more than two-thirds of the seats in the House of Representatives means it now has the numbers needed to initiate a constitutional amendment in the lower house.在修宪问题上，白鸟浩指出，自民党拿下众议院超三分之二席位，意味着其已具备在众议院发起修宪动议的席位条件。A two-thirds majority is a key threshold in modern Japanese politics, as it is required to initiate the constitutional amendment process, which also needs a referendum.三分之二多数席位是日本现代政治的关键门槛，发起修宪程序需达到这一要求，修宪最终还需经由全民公投通过。"If constitutional revision moves forward, Japan may shift from its passive, exclusively defense-oriented posture to a more active exercise of the right of collective self-defense, and could even pursue more proactive overseas operations," Shiratori said.“若修宪进程推进，日本或将从被动的专守防卫姿态，转向更主动地行使集体自卫权，甚至可能推行更具进攻性的海外军事行动。”白鸟浩说。The professor also noted that Article 9 of the Constitution of Japan, which renounces war as a sovereign right and prohibits Japan from maintaining armed forces with the potential to wage a war, is founded on a pacifist principle, adding that the Three Non-Nuclear Principles serve as an important guardrail of that pacifism.他还指出，日本宪法第九条放弃以国家主权发动战争的权利，禁止日本保有可发动战争的军事力量，这一条款以和平主义为根基；而无核三原则，则是守护这一和平主义的重要屏障。Jin Yongming, a professor at Ocean University of China's School of International Affairs and Public Administration, said the result of the election is likely to steer Japan toward a more assertive military and diplomatic posture, heightening regional tensions and increasing the risk of confrontation.中国海洋大学国际事务与公共管理学院教授金永明表示，此次选举结果或将让日本采取更强硬的军事与外交姿态，加剧地区紧张局势，提升对抗风险。"Japan's Diet is likely to tilt further to the right. Under a government led by Takaichi, there could be renewed efforts to revise its 'three security documents', ease restrictions on arms exports, and expand Japan's military capabilities, which would mark a significant shift away from its postwar pacifist trajectory to a more overtly militarized posture," Jin said.“日本国会或将进一步右倾。在高市早苗领导的政府执政下，日方或再度推进修订‘安保三文件'、放宽武器出口限制、扩充军事力量，这标志着日本将大幅偏离战后和平主义轨道，转向更为公开的军事化姿态。”金永明说。Lin, the Foreign Ministry spokesman, warned that Japan's far-right forces will face resistance from the Japanese people and a strong response from the international community if they misjudge the situation and act recklessly.外交部发言人林剑警告，日本极右翼势力若误判形势，恣意妄为，必将遭到日本人民的抵制和国际社会迎头痛击。China's policies toward Japan remain stable and consistent, and will not change because of a single election in Japan, Lin said, urging the Japanese side to retract Takaichi's previous erroneous remarks that hinted at military intervention in the Taiwan Strait.林剑表示，中方对日政策始终保持稳定性和连续性，不会因日本某一次选举而变化，同时敦促日方撤回高市早苗此前暗示武力介入台湾海峡的错误言论。Japan should take concrete actions and demonstrate the necessary sincerity in upholding the political foundation of bilateral relations, Lin added.他还表示，日方应以实际行动展现维护中日关系政治基础的基本诚意。Jin, from Ocean University of China, warned that "tensions and strategic rivalry" between the two countries are likely to persist in the foreseeable future, as Japan has long portrayed China as a "challenge" to its national interests and has amplified the so-called "China threat" narrative. It has also actively sought to build exclusive security blocs aimed at constraining China's development, he said.金永明还警告，中日两国的紧张关系与战略博弈在可预见的未来或将持续。日本长期将中国定位为其国家利益的“挑战”，大肆渲染所谓“中国威胁论”，还积极打造排他性安全集团，企图遏制中国发展。"Heightened confrontation between China and Japan would likely weigh on Japan's trade with China, undermining the performance of its manufacturing sector and constraining broader economic growth. It could also impede the momentum of regional cooperation, slowing both its overall progress and institutional development," he added.他补充道，中日对抗升级，势必冲击日本对华贸易，拖累其制造业表现，制约日本整体经济增长；同时也会阻碍地区合作势头，延缓区域整体发展与机制化建设进程。regular news briefing /ˈreɡjələr njuːz ˈbriːfɪŋ/例行记者会militarism /ˈmɪlɪtərɪzəm/军国主义go back on commitments made /ɡəʊ bæk ɒn kəˈmɪtmənts meɪd/ 背信弃义enact bills /ɪˈnækt bɪlz/ 颁布法案political trajectory /pəˈlɪtɪkl trəˈdʒektəri/政治轨迹intelligence /ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/情报constitutional revision /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənl rɪˈvɪʒn/宪法修订referendum /ˌrefəˈrendəm/全民公投proactive /ˌprəʊˈæktɪv/ 进攻性的pacifist /ˈpæsɪfɪst/和平主义的overtly /əʊˈvɜːtli/公开地Japan's far-right forces /dʒəˈpænz ˈfɑː-raɪt ˈfɔːsɪz/日本极右翼势力recklessly /ˈrekləsli/鲁莽地

Transnational marriage migration is among the many features of cross-border mobility that characterise the globalised world. This is also the case in the Taiwan Strait, where the complicated political situation between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland adds a unique dimension to the phenomenon. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Lara Momesso, whose new book Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan (Manchester, 2025) builds on fifteen years of research and fieldwork to examine the complexities and political entanglements of family formation across the Taiwan Strait. Dr. Lara Momesso is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Lancashire and is also affiliated with the European Research Centre of Contemporary Taiwan and the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS. She is also an editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Viewpoint and hosts the podcasts Taiwan on Air and Voices of Lancashire. Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku. The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland), Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Centre for South Asian Democracy, University of Oslo (Norway). We aim to produce timely, topical and well-edited discussions of new research and developments about Asia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Transnational marriage migration is among the many features of cross-border mobility that characterise the globalised world. This is also the case in the Taiwan Strait, where the complicated political situation between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland adds a unique dimension to the phenomenon. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Lara Momesso, whose new book Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan (Manchester, 2025) builds on fifteen years of research and fieldwork to examine the complexities and political entanglements of family formation across the Taiwan Strait. Dr. Lara Momesso is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Lancashire and is also affiliated with the European Research Centre of Contemporary Taiwan and the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS. She is also an editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Viewpoint and hosts the podcasts Taiwan on Air and Voices of Lancashire. Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku. The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland), Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Centre for South Asian Democracy, University of Oslo (Norway). We aim to produce timely, topical and well-edited discussions of new research and developments about Asia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/east-asian-studies

Transnational marriage migration is among the many features of cross-border mobility that characterise the globalised world. This is also the case in the Taiwan Strait, where the complicated political situation between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland adds a unique dimension to the phenomenon. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Lara Momesso, whose new book Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan (Manchester, 2025) builds on fifteen years of research and fieldwork to examine the complexities and political entanglements of family formation across the Taiwan Strait. Dr. Lara Momesso is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Lancashire and is also affiliated with the European Research Centre of Contemporary Taiwan and the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS. She is also an editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Viewpoint and hosts the podcasts Taiwan on Air and Voices of Lancashire. Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku. The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland), Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Centre for South Asian Democracy, University of Oslo (Norway). We aim to produce timely, topical and well-edited discussions of new research and developments about Asia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

Transnational marriage migration is among the many features of cross-border mobility that characterise the globalised world. This is also the case in the Taiwan Strait, where the complicated political situation between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland adds a unique dimension to the phenomenon. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Lara Momesso, whose new book Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan (Manchester, 2025) builds on fifteen years of research and fieldwork to examine the complexities and political entanglements of family formation across the Taiwan Strait. Dr. Lara Momesso is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Lancashire and is also affiliated with the European Research Centre of Contemporary Taiwan and the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS. She is also an editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Viewpoint and hosts the podcasts Taiwan on Air and Voices of Lancashire. Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku. The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland), Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Centre for South Asian Democracy, University of Oslo (Norway). We aim to produce timely, topical and well-edited discussions of new research and developments about Asia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/chinese-studies

Transnational marriage migration is among the many features of cross-border mobility that characterise the globalised world. This is also the case in the Taiwan Strait, where the complicated political situation between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland adds a unique dimension to the phenomenon. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Lara Momesso, whose new book Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan (Manchester, 2025) builds on fifteen years of research and fieldwork to examine the complexities and political entanglements of family formation across the Taiwan Strait. Dr. Lara Momesso is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Lancashire and is also affiliated with the European Research Centre of Contemporary Taiwan and the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS. She is also an editor-in-chief of the Asia Pacific Viewpoint and hosts the podcasts Taiwan on Air and Voices of Lancashire. Ari-Joonas Pitkänen is a Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku. The Nordic Asia Podcast is a collaboration sharing expertise on Asia across the Nordic region, brought to you by the following academic partners: Asia Centre, University of Tartu (Estonia), Asian studies, University of Helsinki (Finland), Centre for Asian Studies, Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland), Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University (Sweden) and Centre for South Asian Democracy, University of Oslo (Norway). We aim to produce timely, topical and well-edited discussions of new research and developments about Asia.

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—What was supposed to be a global economic summit in Davos is overtaken by geopolitics, as President Trump ramps up pressure on U.S. allies and argues Greenland is a critical national security priority. Later in the show—A staggering figure out of China, where Communist Party enforcers punished nearly one million people in 2025 as President Xi tightens his grip and demands total loyalty. Plus—Beijing escalates pressure across the Taiwan Strait, flying a military drone into Taiwan's airspace for the first time. And in today's Back of the Brief—The British government approves plans for China's largest embassy in Europe, ignoring warnings it could become a hub for espionage. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief CBDistillery: Visit https://CBDistillery.comand use promo code PDB for 25% off your entire order! QUO: Make this the year where no opportunity slips away. Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/PDB  American Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.196% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-885-1881 for details about credit costs and terms. Visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/PDB.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Concern about the possibility of a Chinese attack against Taiwan has surged in recent years. Wargames and research studies have focused primarily on identifying gaps in US and allied capabilities with the goal of strengthening deterrence. A relatively understudied question, however, is the potential consequences for China if a military operation against Taiwan were to fail. To address this gap, the German Marshall Fund led a study of the possible costs that China would incur across four different, but interrelated areas: the Chinese economy, the military, Chinese social stability, and international costs.GMF commissioned four papers on these key areas. We considered two scenarios that could realistically take place in the next five years. In the first scenario, a minor skirmish escalated into a multi-week maritime blockade of Taiwan by China. Although several dozen members of the Chinese and Taiwanese military were killed, US intervention eventually forced China to de-escalate.  In the second scenario, a conflict escalated into a full-fledged invasion, with Chinese strikes on not only Taiwan but also U.S. forces in Japan and Guam. After several months of heavy fighting, Chinese forces were degraded and eventually withdrew after suffering many tens of thousands of casualties.The authors found that the costs to China of a failed military action against Taiwan would likely be considerable. We believe their findings are important and warrant wide dissemination. In this podcast, we'll discuss the report's major conclusions and implications. Then we'll talk about the potential impact of a failed Chinese attempt to take Taiwan on China's military capabilities and the possible international costs that Beijing could face.  Our next two China Global podcasts will examine the implications of a failed military operation against Taiwan for China's economy and social stability.Our guests today are Zack Cooper and Joel Wuthnow. Zack is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and lecturer at Princeton University.  Joel is a senior research fellow in the Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs within the Institute for National Strategic Studies at NDU. Joel's paper and this interview reflect only his personal views and not those of the National Defense University, the Department of War, or the US government.Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction  [03:22] Implications for China, the United States, and Taiwan [06:31] Actions to Strengthen Deterrence  [08:50] Evaluating Costs and Risks for Chinese Decisionmakers[11:46] Lessons Learned for the PLA [14:05] Steps to Avoid Another Attack [17:14] Intensifying Frictions between Party and Military?  [19:53] Anticipating US Intervention as a Military Variable [22:49] Countries and Organizations Likely to Respond to China[25:55] Potential Diplomatic Actions and Costs[31:50] A Treaty Alliance with Taiwan [34:44] Why International Costs Matter to China

In this episode of the China Desk Podcast, Luke de Pulford of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) joins host Steve Yates to examine China's proposed “mega embassy” in London, the national security risks tied to Five Eyes intelligence cables, and how Western governments are capitulating under economic pressure from Beijing. The conversation explores parliamentary resistance, grassroots opposition, CCP coercion tactics, and why Taiwan, supply chains, and global deterrence now define the century's central geopolitical struggle. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

For review:1. A U.S. military strike in northwest Syria resulted in the death of a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda who was linked to the ISIS attack that resulted in the death of two U.S. Army soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter, the U.S. Central Command announced Saturday.2. President Trump's Board of Peace Invitations Sent: 60 Countries Invited; France Says No.3. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged Monday that Turkish and Qatari forces would not set foot in Gaza, days after the White House announced that officials from the countries would sit on a key committee set to oversee the Strip's postwar management.4. U.S. President Donald Trump is also attending in person for the first time since he addressed the forum during his first term in 2020. Alongside President Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are set to attend in person.5. Ukraine's top negotiator Rustem Umerov said on Sunday that talks with U.S. officials would continue at the World Economic Forum opening this week in the Swiss resort of Davos.6. - U.S. President Donald Trump has linked his drive to control Greenland to his failure to win the Nobel Peace Prize, saying he no longer thought "purely of Peace" as the row over the island threatened to reignite a trade war with Europe.The President declined to tell NBC News in an interview whether he would use force to seize Greenland. He did reiterate his threat to hit European nations with tariffs if a deal is not reached.7. A pair of U.S. naval vessels carried out Washington's first reported Taiwan Strait transit of 2026, according to Chinese and U.S. officials.The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command claimed that Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn (DDG 113 ) and Pathfinder-class oceanographic survey ship USNS Mary Sears (T-AGS 65) transited the strategic strait between Friday and Saturday.8. The U.S. and Japan have pledged to further expand joint training across Japan's southwest region, including the first island chain, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Thursday.In a 50-minute meeting held this week in Washington D.C., the two defense leaders agreed to prioritize several initiatives meant to strengthen the response capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance.  

The PLA says it monitored two U.S. Navy vessels transiting the Taiwan Strait, while its Southern Theater Command carried out routine, lawful drone training near the Dongsha Islands.

For Beijing, the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was a mixed bag -- an embarrassing surprise, a wake-up call over its alliances in Latin America and an opening to step up on the world stage, according to Nicholas Burns, the former US ambassador to China. On today’s Big Take, host David Gura and Ambassador Burns discuss how President Donald Trump’s military actions and threats are reshaping China’s relationships across the Pacific and the Taiwan Strait—and how the so-called “Donroe Doctrine” could ultimately hand China a global edge. Read more: How Maduro’s Removal Could Help China in Venezuela and Latin America Hosted by David Gura; Produced by Rachael Lewis-Krisky; Edited by Jeffrey Grocott. Fact-checking by Yang Yang and Naomi Ng; Engineering by Alex Sugiura. Senior Producer: Naomi Shavin; Deputy Executive Producer: Julia Weaver. Executive Producer: Nicole Beemsterboer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Beijing, the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was a mixed bag -- an embarrassing surprise, a wake-up call over its alliances in Latin America and an opening to step up on the world stage, according to Nicholas Burns, the former US ambassador to China. On today’s Big Take, host David Gura and Ambassador Burns discuss how President Donald Trump’s military actions and threats are reshaping China’s relationships across the Pacific and the Taiwan Strait—and how the so-called “Donroe Doctrine” could ultimately hand China a global edge. Read more: How Maduro’s Removal Could Help China in Venezuela and Latin America Hosted by David Gura; Produced by Rachael Lewis-Krisky; Edited by Jeffrey Grocott. Fact-checking by Yang Yang and Naomi Ng; Engineering by Alex Sugiura. Senior Producer: Naomi Shavin; Deputy Executive Producer: Julia Weaver. Executive Producer: Nicole Beemsterboer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Saturday Mornings Show” host Glenn van Zutphen and co-host Neil Humphreys are joined by Barbara Kelemen, Head of Asia at Dragonfly, to unpack the Strategic Outlook 2026—a comprehensive intelligence assessment of the geopolitical and security risks shaping the year ahead. In a world where power is increasingly fragmented and spheres of influence overlap, Dragonfly describes 2026 as a “multisphere world,” one defined by fluid alliances, rising competition, and heightened uncertainty. Barbara walks us through the report’s headline forecasts, including record global defence spending, the rise of geoeconomic coercion, and the growing threat of adversarial AI. She also explains why climate inaction is accelerating cascading crises, and how contested space—literally—has become a new frontier for strategic rivalry. Region by region, we explore the flashpoints to watch: political polarization in the Americas, the volatile Taiwan Strait, Europe’s ongoing confrontation with Russia, persistent instability in the Middle East and North Africa, and the convergence of conflict and climate stress in Sub‑Saharan Africa. Singapore and other regional powers also feature in the report’s analysis of evolving defence postures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey, Scuttlebutt listeners. Welcome to 2026 and thank you for listening and your continued support. We hope you all had fun holidays and a safe New Year's Eve celebration. This week, we kick off 2026 with another Strait Talk with Dr. Michael Hunzeker. Earlier this week, the US executed Operation Absolute Resolve, the military operation in Venezuela to capture President Nicolás Maduro. Mike is here to talk to us about the implications this operation has on cross-Strait relations. Being that China just finished its military demonstration/exercise in the Taiwan Strait, named Justice Mission 2025, at the end of last month, what does the unilateral US action in South America signal to our allies and adversaries? Mike also discusses his efforts in establishing the Taiwan Security Monitor, a student-driven initiative using a range of satellite imagery, mapping, and data visualization tools. He has also recently published the book, America’s Taiwan Dilemma: Allies' Reactions and the Stakes for US Reputation, which offers a rigorous open-source analysis of how America's key allies—Japan, South Korea, and Australia—would respond to US intervention or inaction in a Taiwan conflict. It goes without saying that he has been a busy guy so we're really happy that he was able to make some time for us to talk about the ripple effects of recent events. Enjoy! tsm.schar.gmu.edu cambriapress.com/pub.cfm?bid=1182 The post #224: Strait Talk with Dr. Michael Hunzeker first appeared on Marine Corps Association.

Hey, Scuttlebutt listeners. Welcome to 2026 and thank you for listening and your continued support. We hope you all had fun holidays and a safe New Year's Eve celebration. This week, we kick off 2026 with another Strait Talk with Dr. Michael Hunzeker. Earlier this week, the US executed Operation Absolute Resolve, the military operation in Venezuela to capture President Nicolás Maduro. Mike is here to talk to us about the implications this operation has on cross-Strait relations. Being that China just finished its military demonstration/exercise in the Taiwan Strait, named Justice Mission 2025, at the end of last month, what does the unilateral US action in South America signal to our allies and adversaries? Mike also discusses his efforts in establishing the Taiwan Security Monitor, a student-driven initiative using a range of satellite imagery, mapping, and data visualization tools. He has also recently published the book, America’s Taiwan Dilemma: Allies' Reactions and the Stakes for US Reputation, which offers a rigorous open-source analysis of how America's key allies—Japan, South Korea, and Australia—would respond to US intervention or inaction in a Taiwan conflict. It goes without saying that he has been a busy guy so we're really happy that he was able to make some time for us to talk about the ripple effects of recent events. Enjoy! tsm.schar.gmu.edu cambriapress.com/pub.cfm?bid=1182 The post #224: Strait Talk with Dr. Michael Hunzeker first appeared on Marine Corps Association.

Chinese mainland authorities named two senior officials from Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party as die-hard "Taiwan independence" separatists on Wednesday and labeled a Taiwan prosecutor as an accomplice, saying that they will face lifelong legal accountability.Chen Binhua, a spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said at a news conference that Liu Shih-fang, head of Taiwan's so-called "interior affairs department", and Cheng Ying-yao, head of the island's "education department", were added to a mainland list of people accused of pushing "Taiwan independence".Chen accused Liu and Cheng of promoting separatist ideas that go against mainstream public opinion. He said that authorities had received reports from compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait calling for the two officials to be punished.The spokesman said that Liu has blatantly propagated "Taiwan independence" rhetoric and has restricted people in Taiwan who support or take part in exchanges with the mainland, including mainland-born spouses living on the island.Chen said that Cheng, who oversees the island's education policy, has brazenly peddled provocative rhetoric advocating "Taiwan independence" and has organized the compilation of "Taiwan independence" teaching materials, which he said have had a negative impact on young people in Taiwan.The spokesman criticized both officials for persistent and extreme actions aimed at dividing the country, stirring confrontation, disrupting cross-Strait exchanges and harming the interests of people on both sides.Under mainland laws, sanctions have been imposed on Liu and Cheng. They and their family members are barred from entering the mainland, as well as the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions. Organizations affiliated with them are also banned from doing business on the mainland or cooperating with mainland entities.The spokesman also announced that Chen Shu-yi, a prosecutor at Taiwan's so-called "high prosecutors office", had been listed as an accomplice to "Taiwan independence" activities, and she would be held legally responsible for life.He accused the prosecutor of fabricating cases, making false accusations and targeting people in Taiwan who support cross-Strait exchanges. He said such actions were intended to intimidate the public and create a "climate of fear".The spokesman also encouraged people from both the mainland and Taiwan to provide information and evidence related to the alleged illegal activities of those named.So far, the mainland has identified 14 individuals as die-hard "Taiwan independence" separatists, including Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan's deputy leader, and Koo Li-hsiung, head of the island's "defense department". It has also listed 12 people as accomplices of "Taiwan independence" secessionists."Any 'Taiwan independence' separatist who breaks the law, no matter where they are, will face all necessary measures and will be held accountable for life," the spokesman said.He also responded to a recent proposal by DPP lawmakers to amend Taiwan's law governing relations with the mainland. He said the "red line" must not be crossed, and he accused the DPP authorities of escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait.The proposal, which reportedly has been withdrawn, sought to redefine cross-Strait relations as relations between "Taiwan and the People's Republic of China" and to remove the words "before national reunification" from the Taiwan law.Citing China's Anti-Secession Law, the spokesman said the mainland would not tolerate what it calls "de jure independence", warning that those who challenge the law will face serious consequences.

China announced on Tuesday an immediate ban on exporting dual-use items to Japan, in response to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks hinting at the possibility of military intervention in the Taiwan Strait.中国于周二宣布，立即禁止向日本出口军民两用物品，以此回应日本首相高市早苗有关暗示可能军事干预台湾海峡的错误言论。These remarks "constitute gross interference in China's internal affairs, seriously violate the one-China principle, and are extremely egregious in both nature and impact", a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.商务部发言人于周二表示，上述言论 “严重干涉中国内政，严重违反一个中国原则，性质恶劣、影响极坏”。In order to safeguard national security and interests, as well as fulfill international nonproliferation obligations, China decided to strengthen control over dual-use item exports to Japan, the ministry said in its first announcement of the year.商务部在其本年度首份公告中指出，为维护国家安全和利益，履行防扩散国际义务，中国决定加强对向日本出口军民两用物品的管控。Dual-use items refer to products, software and technologies that have legitimate civilian uses, but can also be adapted for military purposes, such as the development of weapons of mass destruction or the enhancement of conventional military capabilities. The list covers items from chemicals and drones to high-tech computers and software.军民两用物品是指既有合法民用用途，又可被改造用于军事目的的产品、软件和技术，例如可用于大规模杀伤性武器研发或提升常规军事能力的相关物品。该清单涵盖的品类从化学品、无人机，到高科技计算机及软件等。The country prohibits the export of all dual-use items to Japanese military users, for Japan's military use, and for any other end-users and end-use purposes that help enhance Japan's military capabilities, according to the announcement.公告明确，中国禁止向日本军事用户出口任何军民两用物品，禁止任何军民两用物品用于日本军事用途，同时禁止向其他任何有助于提升日本军事能力的最终用户出口，或用于此类最终用途。Stringent export controls and licensing requirements for dual-use items represent an established international norm.对军民两用物品实施严格的出口管制及许可要求，是一项公认的国际准则。The United States' Export Control Reform Act and the European Union's Dual-Use Regulation, for instance, mandate that the export of sensitive technologies or materials, including those with potential military applications, must be subject to proper licensing and authorization procedures.例如，美国《出口管制改革法案》和欧盟《军民两用物品条例》均规定，敏感技术或物资（包括具有潜在军事应用价值的相关品类）的出口，必须经过规范的许可和审批程序。China is also considering tightening export permit reviews for certain rare earth-related items to Japan, due to Takaichi's recent erroneous remarks on Taiwan and her continued refusal to retract them, a source familiar with the matter told China Daily on Tuesday.一位知情人士于周二向《中国日报》透露，鉴于高市早苗近期就台湾问题发表错误言论且拒不收回，中国正考虑收紧部分稀土相关物品对日本的出口许可审核。On April 4 last year, the Ministry of Commerce, along with the General Administration of Customs, issued an announcement on export control measures for seven categories of medium and heavy rare earth-related items — samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium.去年 4 月 4 日，商务部会同海关总署发布公告，对钐、钆、铽、镝、镥、钪、钇等七类中重稀土相关物品实施出口管制措施。According to Tokyo-headquartered Nomura Research Institute, heavy rare earths such as dysprosium and terbium, used for electric vehicle motors in Japan, are almost 100 percent sourced from China. Any restrictions on those supplies would pose significant challenges to the Japanese economy.总部位于东京的野村综合研究所指出，日本电动汽车电机所使用的镝、铽等重稀土，几乎 100% 依赖从中国进口。此类稀土供应若受限，将对日本经济构成重大挑战。The institute estimates that if China's restrictions on rare earth exports to Japan were to last for three months, it would result in losses of about 660 billion yen ($4.2 billion), reducing nominal and real GDP by 0.11 percent annually. If the restrictions continued for a year, losses could reach about 2.6 trillion yen, leading to a 0.43 percent decline in both nominal and real GDP as noted by the institute.该研究所测算，若中国对日本的稀土出口限制持续三个月，日本将遭受约 6600 亿日元（折合 42 亿美元）的损失，其名义国内生产总值和实际国内生产总值年均降幅将达 0.11%；若限制持续一年，损失规模或将达到约 2.6 万亿日元，导致日本名义和实际国内生产总值均下降 0.43%。Beijing has sent Tokyo a clear message that it cannot expect to continue benefiting from China's vast market and resources while challenging China's core interests, said Chen Wenling, former chief economist at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges.中国国际经济交流中心前首席经济学家陈文玲表示，中方已向日方发出明确信号：日方不能指望在挑战中国核心利益的同时，还能持续从中国广阔的市场和丰富的资源中获益。"The one-China principle and noninterference in China's internal affairs form an unbreachable prerequisite for China-Japan cooperation,"Chen said.陈文玲强调：“一个中国原则和不干涉中国内政，是中日开展合作不可逾越的前提。”Tetsuro Homma, executive vice-president of Panasonic, said that China is not only a consumer market or a manufacturing powerhouse, but also an innovation and engineering hub.松下电器常务副社长本间哲朗表示，中国不仅是一个消费市场和制造业大国，更是一个创新和工程技术中心。"For Japanese companies, strengthening collaboration with Chinese supply chain partners is crucial. It enables us to deliver quality products to global consumers at more competitive prices,"Homma said.本间哲朗称：“对于日本企业而言，加强与中国供应链合作伙伴的协作至关重要。这能让我们以更具竞争力的价格，向全球消费者提供优质产品。”dual-use /ˌdjuːəl ˈjuːs/ adj. 军民两用的nonproliferation /ˌnɒnprəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ n. 防扩散；不扩散rare earth /ˌreə ˈɜːθ/ n. 稀土prerequisite /ˌpriːˈrekwəzɪt/ n. 前提；先决条件

In this episode, host Steve Yates is joined by Andrew J. Phelan, Australian med-tech entrepreneur, former government advisor, and longtime China watcher, for a wide-ranging conversation on the growing global confrontation with the Chinese Communist Party.Phelan reflects on recent events in Australia, including the Bondi tragedy, and examines how information warfare, social media platforms like TikTok, and foreign influence operations are shaping public opinion—especially among younger generations. From there, the discussion expands to Australia's China policy under Prime Minister Albanese, U.S.–Australia alliance dynamics, and the limits of appeasement.The conversation dives deep into the technology Cold War: export controls, semiconductors, AI, supply-chain dependence, Chinese overcapacity, and the role of Western capital in financing China's rise. Phelan argues that 2025 marks a true inflection point—one defined by economic bifurcation, strategic risk, and growing pressure around Taiwan.This episode offers a clear-eyed assessment of where things stand heading into 2026—and why democracies must respond by grounding strategy in values, sovereignty, and long-term discipline rather than short-term convenience. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

Greetings to all! Year after year, life opens a fresh chapter. As the new year begins, I extend my best wishes to you from Beijing!The year 2025 marks the completion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan for economic and social development. Over the past five years, we have pressed ahead with enterprise and fortitude, and overcome many difficulties and challenges. We met the targets in the Plan and made solid advances on the new journey of Chinese modernization. Our economic output has crossed thresholds one after another, and it is expected to reach RMB 140 trillion yuan this year. Our economic strength, scientific and technological abilities, defense capabilities, and composite national strength all reached new heights. Clear waters and lush mountains have become a salient feature of our landscape. Our people enjoy a growing sense of gain, happiness and security. The past five years have been a truly remarkable journey, and our accomplishments have not come easily. Your unwavering hard work has made our nation thrive and prosper. I salute you all for your exceptional diligence and invaluable contributions.This year is full of indelible memories. We solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and established the Taiwan Recovery Day. These grand national events were majestic and powerful, and the glory of victory will shine through the pages of history. They are inspiring all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation to remember history, honor fallen heroes, cherish peace, and create a better future. They are rallying a mighty force for the great rejuvenation of our nation.We sought to energize high-quality development through innovation. We integrated science and technology deeply with industries, and made a stream of new innovations. Many large AI models have been competing in a race to the top, and breakthroughs have been achieved in the research and development of our own chips. All this has turned China into one of the economies with the fastest growing innovation capabilities. The Tianwen 2 probe began its star-chasing journey to explore asteroids and comets. Construction of the hydropower project at the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River started. China's first aircraft carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system was officially commissioned. Humanoid robots did kung fu kicks, and drones performed spectacular light shows. Inventions and innovations have boosted new quality productive forces and added colorful dimensions to our lives.We endeavored to nurture our spiritual home with cultural development. There was a surging public interest in cultural relics, museums, and intangible cultural heritage. A new Chinese cultural site was added to the World Heritage List. Cultural IPs such as Wukong and Nezha became global hits. The younger generation came to deem classic Chinese culture as the finest form of aesthetic expression. The cultural and tourism sectors thrived. The "super league" football games in our cities and villages attracted numerous fans. Ice and snow sports ignited people's passion for the winter season. Tradition is now embracing modernity, and the Chinese culture is shining in even greater splendor.We joined hands to build a better life and enjoyed it together. I attended celebrations in Xizang and Xinjiang. From the snow-covered plateau to both sides of the Tianshan Mountains, people of various ethnic groups are united as one, like seeds of a pomegranate sticking together. With white khatas and passionate singing and dancing, they expressed their love of the motherland and the happiness they enjoy. No issue of the people is too small; we care for every leaf and tend every branch in the garden of people's well-being. Over the past year, the rights and interests of the workforce in new forms of employment have been better protected, facilities have been upgraded to bring more convenience to the elderly, and each family with childcare needs has received a subsidy of RMB 300 yuan per month. When the happy hum of daily life fills every home, the big family of our nation will go from strength to strength.We continued to embrace the world with open arms. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin and the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women were very successful; and island-wide special customs operations were launched in the Hainan Free Trade Port. To better address climate change, China announced new Nationally Determined Contributions. After announcing the three global initiatives on development, security, and civilization, I put forward the Global Governance Initiative to promote a more just and equitable global governance system. The world today is undergoing both changes and turbulence, and some regions are still engulfed in war. China always stands on the right side of history, and is ready to work with all countries to advance world peace and development and build a community with a shared future for humanity.Not long ago, I attended the opening ceremony of the National Games, and I was glad to see Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao coming together in unity and acting in unison. We should unswervingly implement the policy of One Country, Two Systems, and support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating into the overall development of our country and maintaining long-term prosperity and stability. We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share a bond of blood and kinship. The reunification of our motherland, a trend of the times, is unstoppable!Only a strong Communist Party of China can make our country strong. We launched the study and education program on fully implementing the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving Party and government conduct. We exercised strict governance of the Party through credible measures, and promoted the Party's self-revolution to fight corruption and advance healthy governance. As a result, the conduct of our Party and government steadily improved. We must stay true to our original aspiration and founding mission, and pursue our goal with perseverance and dedication. We should continue to give a good answer to the question on how to maintain long-term governance put forth in a cave dwelling in Yan'an and prove ourselves worthy of the people's expectation in the new era.The year 2026 marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan. A successful venture should start with a good plan and with clear goals set. We should focus on our goals and tasks, boost confidence, and build momentum to press ahead. We should take solid steps to promote high-quality development, further deepen reform and opening up across the board, deliver prosperity for all, and write a new chapter in the story of China's miracle.The dream lofty, the journey long-bold strides will get us there. Let us charge ahead like horses with courage, vitality, and energy, fight for our dreams and our happiness, and turn our great vision into beautiful realities.The sun of the new year will soon rise. May our great motherland stand in magnificence! May the fields across the country deliver good harvest! May our nation bathe in the glory of the morning! May you all enjoy life to the fullest, and achieve every success! May all your dreams come true!

A World View from London: Geopolitical tension, environmental clean-ups and predictions for the year ahead Adam Gilchrist joins John Maytham for a global round-up that starts in East Asia, where China has launched fresh military drills around Taiwan, escalating regional tensions and prompting concern about stability in the Taiwan Strait. The conversation then shifts to the slopes of Mount Everest, where Nepal’s efforts to tackle mounting rubbish left by climbers are under scrutiny as authorities rethink how best to protect the world’s highest peak. The segment ends on a lighter but curious note with a look at the latest viral predictions attributed to Baba Vanga for 2026, sparking debate about why prophecies continue to capture the public imagination. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watch the full podcast! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-319  What if the next major battlefield isn't the Taiwan Strait? The CCP has its tentacles all over the world, and could use those to cause chaos, or even trigger war. Former U.S. Air Force strategist Guermantes Lailari shows how much the US is at risk. You can read his article here: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2025/12/08/2003848493

The Adversary (The Tier One Thrillers) by Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson https://www.amazon.com/Adversary-Tier-One-Thrillers/dp/B0F95HK4D2 From New York Times bestselling authors Andrews & Wilson, The Adversary is the next heart-stopping installment in the Tier One series. For John Dempsey, it’s a time of uncertainty. As a new administration tries to piece together who was behind the assassination of an American president, task force Ember is a team without a target. Newly Minted POTUS, Kelso Jarvis, is haunted by strange dreams of a house on fire, and Dempsey’s son Jake–who has begun his own journey as a SEAL–can’t escape the ghost of the father he believes to be dead. But when a routine intelligence gathering mission in Taiwan goes horribly wrong and one of Ember’s own is captured, Dempsey’s frustration only grows. As Ember races to rescue their teammate before it’s too late, three of America’s strongest warriors–Dempsey, Jarvis, and Jake–must ask themselves if tomorrow’s adversary resides across the Taiwan Strait, or within themselves. About the author Brian is a US Navy veteran, nuclear engineer, and former submarine officer. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in psychology, holds a Master’s in business from Cornell, and is a Park Leadership Fellow. He is a principal contributor at Career Authors, a site dedicated to advancing the careers of aspiring and published writers: www.careerauthors.com.

China criticized the latest United States National Defense Authorization Act on Thursday, saying it blatantly interferes in China's internal affairs and sends a seriously wrong signal to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.中国周四批评美国最新通过的《国防授权法案》，称该法案公然干涉中国内政，并向“台独”分裂势力释放出严重错误的信号。Zhang Xiaogang, spokesman for China's Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a news conference in response to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which was signed last week by US President Donald Trump.中国国防部新闻发言人张晓刚是在新闻发布会上就2026财年《国防授权法案》作出上述表态的。该法案已于上周由美国总统唐纳德·特朗普签署。The act includes multiple provisions related to China and allocates about $1 billion for the so-called "Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative," aimed at enhancing arms sales to China's Taiwan region.该法案包含多项涉华条款，并拨款约10亿美元用于所谓的“台湾安全合作倡议”，旨在加强对中国台湾地区的武器出售。Zhang said the law constitutes blatant interference in China's internal affairs and gravely undermines peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.张晓刚表示，该法案公然干涉中国内政，严重破坏台海地区的和平与稳定。He accused the US of reneging on its commitments by intensifying arms sales to Taiwan, noting that such actions will only embolden "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and push the Taiwan Strait closer to danger and war.他指责美方不断加大对台军售，背弃自身承诺，指出此类行为只会助长“台独”分裂势力的嚣张气焰，将台海局势推向更加危险甚至战争的边缘。Zhang also criticized Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities for "sacrificing the interests of the Taiwan people" and allowing the US to "drain Taiwan dry" in pursuit of its own strategic goals.张晓刚还批评台湾民进党当局“牺牲台湾民众的利益”，纵容美国为实现自身战略目标而“榨干台湾”。"Attempts to use Taiwan to contain China are doomed to fail, and seeking 'independence' through force will only lead to self-destruction," Zhang said.“企图以台制华注定失败，妄图以武谋独只会自取灭亡。”张晓刚说。He urged the US to fully recognize the extreme sensitivity of the Taiwan question, strictly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and handle Taiwan-related affairs "as cautiously as possible".他敦促美方充分认识台湾问题的高度敏感性，严格恪守一个中国原则和中美三个联合公报，以“极其谨慎的态度”处理涉台问题。The spokesman urged the US to stop arming Taiwan in any form and to safeguard overall China-US relations and bilateral military ties.这位发言人呼吁美方停止以任何形式武装台湾，切实维护中美关系大局和两国两军关系。Also on Thursday, Xu Dong, spokesperson for the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, expressed strong dissatisfaction with and firm opposition to the newly signed act.同日，全国人大外事委员会发言人许东也对该法案的签署表示强烈不满和坚决反对。Xu said the act continued a long-standing tone of containing China, hyped the so-called "China threat", and constituted blatant interference in China's internal affairs, seriously undermining China's core interests.许东表示，该法案延续了遏制中国的一贯基调，渲染所谓“中国威胁论”，公然干涉中国内政，严重损害中国核心利益。"We hope the US side views China's development and China-US relations objectively and rationally, and works with China to implement the important consensus reached in the meeting between the two countries' heads of state in Busan," Xu said.“我们希望美方客观理性看待中国发展和中美关系，与中方一道落实两国元首在釜山会晤中达成的重要共识。”许东说。"We strongly urge the US to abandon its zero-sum mentality and ideological bias, and to refrain from implementing the China-related negative provisions in the bill," he added.“我们强烈敦促美方摒弃零和思维和意识形态偏见，停止落实法案中涉华的消极条款。”他补充道。He warned that if the US insists on going its own way, China will take resolute measures in accordance with the law to firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests.他警告称，如果美方一意孤行，中方将依法采取坚决措施，坚定维护国家主权、安全和发展利益。During the news conference, defense spokesman Zhang also slammed Taiwan's regional leader Lai Ching-te for what he described as "kowtowing to the US" and recklessly pursuing militarization, calling him "an instigator of war".在新闻发布会上，张晓刚还抨击台湾地区领导人赖清德“对美卑躬屈膝”，肆意推进军事化，称其为“战争的煽动者”。Lai recently told the media that Taiwan must pursue "peace through strength" and reaffirmed what he called a "rock-solid" relationship with the US, alongside plans to push forward a $40 billion arms procurement.赖清德近日对媒体表示，台湾必须追求“以实力谋和平”，并重申其所谓与美国“坚如磐石”的关系，同时计划推进一项400亿美元的军购计划。Zhang said Taiwan's DPP authorities are colluding with external forces in a bid to pursue "Taiwan independence", which he called the root cause of rising tensions across the Taiwan Strait.张晓刚表示，台湾民进党当局勾连外部势力，企图推动“台独”，这是当前台海紧张局势上升的根本原因。"Lai's unprincipled submission to the US and his reckless pursuit of militarization have turned him into nothing more than a pure destroyer of peace and an instigator of war," Zhang said.“赖清德毫无原则地向美国屈服、肆意推进军事化，使其沦为纯粹的和平破坏者和战争煽动者。”张晓刚说。"Lai now has the audacity to talk about 'peace' while arrogantly boasting about 'strength', a stance that is both delusional and self-deceiving," the spokesman added.这位发言人补充说：“赖清德一边狂妄鼓吹所谓‘实力'，一边却空谈‘和平'，这种立场既荒谬又自欺欺人。”"The trend toward national reunification is unstoppable," Zhang said. "Those who betray the nation and seek to split the country will ultimately be condemned by history."“国家统一的大势不可阻挡。”张晓刚说，“背叛民族、分裂国家的人终将被历史所唾弃。”blatantly interfere in/ˈbleɪtəntli ˌɪntəˈfɪə(r) ɪn/公然干涉reneg(e) on commitments/rɪˈnɪɡ ɒn kəˈmɪtmənts/背弃承诺arms sales/ɑːmz seɪlz/武器出售/军售three China-US joint communiques/θriː ˈdʒɔɪnt kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪz/中美三个联合公报zero-sum mentality/ˌzɪərəʊ sʌm menˈtæləti/零和思维militarization/ˌmɪlɪtəraɪˈzeɪʃn/军事化instigator of war/ˈɪnstɪɡeɪtə(r) əv wɔː/战争煽动者

There are no so-called "prohibited or restricted waters" in the sea area between Xiamen and Jinmen, an island administered by Taiwan, a spokesperson of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office said on Saturday.国务院台湾事务办公室发言人周六表示，厦门与台湾当局管辖的金门岛之间的海域不存在所谓的“禁止或限制水域”。Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said that Taiwan and the islands of Penghu, Jinmen, and Matsu are parts of China. Waters between Jinmen and Fujian province's Xiamen have long been shared fishing grounds for fishermen from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.国务院台办发言人陈斌华表示，台湾及澎湖、金门、马祖列岛都是中国的一部分。金门与福建厦门之间的海域长期以来一直是海峡两岸渔民的共同渔场。He added that the routine patrols by the Chinese mainland coast guard are crucial for maintaining maritime order and ensuring the safety of fishermen from both sides. He called on the Democratic Progressive Party authorities in Taiwan to acknowledge the historical and factual realities of these shared fishing areas and to stop unjustified detentions and aggressive actions against fishermen from the Chinese mainland.他补充说，中国大陆海警开展的例行巡航执法对于维护海上秩序、保障两岸渔民生命财产安全至关重要。他敦促台湾民进党当局正视相关海域的历史和事实现实，停止对大陆渔民进行无理扣押和挑衅性行为。Chen warned that the DPP authorities would bear full responsibility for any consequences if such actions were to continue.陈斌华警告称，如上述行为继续发生，由此产生的一切后果将由民进党当局承担全部责任。prohibited or restricted waters禁止或限制水域State Council Taiwan Affairs Office国务院台湾事务办公室shared fishing grounds共同渔场routine patrols例行巡航/例行巡逻unjustified detentions无理扣押

For review:1. US Seizes Second Venezuelan Sanctioned Tanker.2. US Strikes 70 ISIS Targets in Syria.The attack was conducted using F-15 Eagle jets, A-10 Thunderbolt ground attack aircraft and AH-64 Apache helicopters, the U.S. officials said. F-16 fighter jets from Jordan and HIMARS rocket artillery also were used.3. NBC Report: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will present plans for a possible fresh attack on Iran to US President Donald Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington. According to the report, Israel is growing increasingly concerned that Iran is rebuilding and even expanding its ballistic missile production in the wake of the nations' 12-day war in June.4. Russia & France Consider Dialogue.5. Chinese Aircraft Carrier Fujian 18 Sails Thru Taiwan Strait.

The clock is ticking toward a historic moment in Hainan Province, as it is set to formally launch island-wide special customs operations (01:06). Thailand has demanded Cambodia be the first to announce a ceasefire after more than a week of clashes while Cambodia has not responded (23:32). The Chinese mainland authorities have criticized the Democratic Progressive Party authorities for restricting exchanges across the Taiwan Strait (31:41).

How might a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan unfold? China's anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) strategy—a combination of missiles, submarines, sensors, and air defenses—is designed specifically to block and disrupt US air, sea, and even space and cyber power.But the true outcome of the operation will hinge on the rapid mobilization of People's Liberation Army (PLA) ground forces, argues recently retired four-star general Charles Flynn, former commander of U.S. Army Pacific.He warns that the real “center of gravity” of a Chinese invasion will lie in its ability to rapidly assemble, deploy, and transport land forces across the Taiwan Strait.“What keeps me up at night is their ability to actually pull that off in 96 hours,” Flynn says.He is convinced that building a “strategic land power network” and forging deep, enduring ties with partner armies in Asia will be vital to deterring the Chinese regime.In this episode, Flynn lays out a roadmap for how the U.S. military should rethink its strategy, technology, and partnerships to deter Beijing and safeguard its allies in the Indo-Pacific.“This century is going to be defined by the relationship between the United States and China. … We've said we've pivoted to the Pacific for more than a decade, and in actual behavior and actions, that's not accurate,” Flynn says.Before commanding U.S. Army Pacific, Flynn served as the Army's Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans and Training (G3/5/7). He is the brother of General Michael Flynn, former national security advisor to President Donald Trump.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

In Season 6, Episode 5 of Global Taiwan Insights, Ben Sando interviews Andrew Yeh, Executive Director of the China Strategic Risks Institute, on suspected Chinese and Russian collaboration on undersea cable sabotage. In recent years, critical undersea cables have been severed in global hotspots such as the Baltic Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Yeh takes us through cases of potential Beijing-Moscow collaboration and explains why international law isn't ready to ward off these attacks. 

Given Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan from 1895 to 1945, which inflicted atrocities on the Chinese people, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has nonetheless attempted to exploit the Taiwan question to provoke trouble and threaten China militarily, which is "utterly intolerable", Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.中国外交部长王毅表示，鉴于日本在1895年至1945年间对台湾的殖民统治给中国人民带来了深重灾难，日本首相高市早苗却仍企图利用台湾问题挑衅生事、在军事上威胁中国，这种行径“完全不可容忍”。In his talks with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in Beijing on Monday, Wang referred to Takaichi's recent provocative remarks in parliament about Taiwan, saying that the one-China principle is an important political foundation for China-Germany relations, and there is no room for ambiguity.王毅在周一与来访的德国外长约翰·瓦德普福举行会谈时指出，高市早苗近日在日本国会发表涉台挑衅言论。王毅强调，一个中国原则是中德关系的重要政治基础，不容含糊。He noted that unlike Germany, Japan has yet to conduct a thorough reflection in the past eight decades since the end of World War II on its history of aggression.王毅指出，与德国不同，日本在二战结束八十年来一直未能对其侵略历史进行彻底反省。Wadephul said Germany remains firmly committed to the one-China policy, and this position will not change.瓦德普福表示，德国始终坚定奉行一个中国政策，这一立场不会改变。During the talks, Wang said that Taiwan has been part of China since ancient times, and he elaborated on a seven-point fact list that clearly supports this position and records Tokyo's past official commitments regarding Taiwan.会谈中，王毅重申台湾自古以来就是中国的一部分，并列举了七项事实，既明确支持这一立场，也记录了日方过去在台湾问题上的正式承诺。The Cairo Declaration issued in 1943 stated that all the territories Japan had stolen from China, such as Taiwan, should be restored to China. Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation in 1945 stipulated that the terms of the Cairo Declaration will be carried out.1943年发布的《开罗宣言》明确规定，日本从中国窃取的所有领土（包括台湾）必须归还中国。1945年《波茨坦公告》第八条明确要求执行《开罗宣言》的所有条款。In 1945, Japan surrendered unconditionally, the Japanese emperor committed to faithfully fulfilling the provisions of the Potsdam Proclamation, and the then Chinese government announced resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Taiwan on Oct 25, 1945.1945年日本无条件投降，日本天皇承诺忠实履行《波茨坦公告》的规定。同年10月25日，中国政府宣布恢复对台湾行使主权。In 1971, the 26th session of the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758 to restore all rights to the People's Republic of China, and the UN's official legal opinion confirms that Taiwan is a province of China, Wang said.王毅指出，1971年联合国大会第二十六届会议通过2758号决议，恢复中华人民共和国在联合国的一切合法权利；联合国的正式法律意见也确认台湾是中国的一个省。According to the China-Japan Joint Statement of 1972, the Chinese government "reiterates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the PRC", and "the government of Japan fully understands and respects this stand". The 1978 Treaty of Peace and Friendship Between China and Japan confirmed that the principles set forth in the 1972 Joint Statement should be strictly observed.根据1972年《中日联合声明》，中国政府“重申台湾是中华人民共和国领土不可分割的一部分”，日本政府则“充分理解并尊重这一立场”。1978年《中日和平友好条约》进一步确认应严格遵守联合声明所确立的原则。As a defeated nation in World War II, Japan "should have undertaken profound reflection and acted with greater caution", as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945), Wang said.王毅表示，作为二战战败国，日本理应深刻反省并更加谨慎。今年正值中国人民抗日战争胜利（1931—1945）80周年，日本更应有所警醒。He also said that attempts to seek "Taiwan independence" mean splitting China's territory, and supporting "Taiwan independence" amounts to interference in China's internal affairs, which violates China's Constitution as well as international law.他强调，谋求“台独”就是分裂中国领土，支持“台独”就是干涉中国内政，这既违反中国宪法，也违反国际法。The Chinese people, together with all peace-loving people around the world, bear the responsibility to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and they also have the obligation to prevent Japan from remilitarization and attempting to revive militaristic ambitions, he added.王毅补充说，中国人民以及全世界热爱和平的人们都有责任维护《联合国宪章》的宗旨和原则，也有义务防止日本重新军事化、阻止其重燃军国主义野心。"By linking the Taiwan question to Japan's 'survival-threatening situation', Takaichi and the conservative, right-wing forces behind her have stoked security anxiety among part of the Japanese public and politicians," said Wang Peng, a research fellow at Huazhong University of Science and Technology's Institute of State Governance.华中科技大学国家治理研究院研究员王鹏指出，高市早苗及其身后的保守右翼势力将台湾问题与所谓“生存危机情况”相挂钩，煽动了日本部分公众和政界的安全焦虑。This helps to pave the way for further lifting postwar legislative restrictions on Japan's military buildup and escalate tension in the Taiwan Strait, he said.他表示，这将为进一步突破日本战后军事限制铺路，并加剧台海局势紧张。Jeffrey Sachs, a professor and director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University in the United States, said in a lecture at the University of South Africa last month that "China went for a thousand years without once invading Japan, a near neighbor, even though China was much more powerful.美国哥伦比亚大学可持续发展中心主任、教授杰弗里·萨克斯上月在南非大学的演讲中指出：“中国在长达一千年的历史中，从未侵略过近邻日本，即便中国一直更为强大。”"The Japanese actually sadly invaded China many times, but never the other way around," he added.他补充说：“遗憾的是，侵略中国的一直是日本，而从未反之。”Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that during World War II, Japanese troops slaughtered more than 300,000 people in Nanjing in eastern China, killed over 100,000 in Manila in the Philippines within one month, and carried out the Singapore Massacre.中国外交部发言人郭家坤周二表示，二战期间，日本军队在中国南京屠杀30多万人，在菲律宾马尼拉一个月内杀害10万多人，并制造了新加坡大屠杀。Any moves to condone provocations by Japan's right-wing forces "will only lead to the resurgence of militarism" and "put Asian people at risk again", Guo said.郭家坤指出，任何纵容日本右翼挑衅的举动“只会导致军国主义死灰复燃”，并“让亚洲人民再次面临危险”。Cairo Declaration《开罗宣言》Potsdam Proclamation《波茨坦公告》remilitarization/ˌriːmɪlɪtəraɪˈzeɪʃən/重新军事化right-wing forces右翼势力resurgence of militarism军国主义复活

We learnt this week that A New Zealand Navy vessel was followed by 7 Chinese Warships while patrolling Asian waters. The HMNZS Aotearoa had crossed through the Taiwan Strait, and was patrolling international waters to curb North Korean war programmes. Commodore Shane Arndell told Ryan Bridge that this is a routine practice, and communication was open between the HMNZS Aotearoa and the Chinese fleet. 'We communicate, we let each other know what we're doing, we keep it all nice and safe and everything is respectful.' LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A New Zealand navy ship's been shadowed by seven Chinese warships in East Asian waters. HMNZS Aotearoa was carrying out surveillance and deterrence activities last month to enforce the UN's sanctions against North Korea. The Defence Force has confirmed the warships kept a safe distance throughout. Otago University international relations professor Robert Patman told Heather du Plessis-Allan it indicates China firmly believes in its sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait. He says a growing consciousness of military might means China's less tolerant of infringements on what it sees as its sovereign claim. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China's maritime safety authorities have carried out their first emergency search-and-rescue drills in the Taiwan Shoal, which is located in the southern section of the Taiwan Strait.

Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red: China's Project to Destroy America and The Coming Collapse of China and found on Twitter @GordonGChang, joined The Guy Benson Show today with guest host Harry Hurley to break down China's deepening influence and infiltration inside American politics and government. Chang broke down the breaking story involving alleged Chinese operative Linda Sun and her boasting about having control and sway over NY Governor Kathy Hochul. Chang discussed past cases involving Chinese ties to American offices tied to Eric Swalwell and Dianne Feinstein. Hurley and Chang then turned to Beijing's economic pressure campaigns, and why Secretary Bessent does not need to make excuses for Chinese failure to fulfill soybean promises. Chang also assessed China's escalating aggression toward Taiwan and how the Trump administration has reinforced deterrence in the Taiwan Strait, and weighed in on the "Iron Lady" Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's tougher posture toward Beijing as a model for democratic allies. Listen to the full interview below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The legislative authority of Fujian Province in east China has passed a regulation on promoting compatibility and mutual recognition of standards across the Taiwan Strait.

Japan's stance on the Taiwan question has long defined its relations with China. Japan must reaffirm its commitment to the four important documents which are the bedrock of bilateral relations. However, it has purposely maintained strategic ambiguity on the Taiwan question.日本在台湾问题上的立场长期决定着中日关系的走向。日本必须重申其对构成两国关系基础的四个重要政治文件的承诺。然而，日本在台湾问题上刻意保持战略模糊。As a result, the Taiwan question has remained a persistent pivot, shaped by Japan's post-war legal positioning, its domestic political constraints and, above all, its reliance on the United States-Japan security alliance.因此，台湾问题一直是中日关系的关键点，受日本战后法律定位、国内政治约束，尤其是对美日同盟依赖的共同影响。After World War II, Japan accepted the Potsdam Proclamation and its requirement to restore Taiwan to China. But in practice, it followed the US-led "Treaty of San Francisco" signed in 1951, which had been signed without the participation of representatives from China. That "treaty" required Japan only to "renounce" Taiwan, without specifying its return to China. Using this omission as an excuse, Japan claimed it did not have the legal authority to define "Taiwan's status".二战后，日本接受《波茨坦公告》及其“台湾归还中国”的要求。但在实践中，日本却遵循1951年美主导的《旧金山和约》——该“和约”签署时并无中国的参与。该“和约”要求日本“放弃”台湾，但并未明确台湾应归还中国。日本借此漏洞声称其无权定义“台湾地位”。The position was blatantly contradictory. Japan was simultaneously agreeing to adhere to the Potsdam Proclamation while relying on a so-called "treaty" that obscured what Potsdam had made explicit. This dual-track approach was driven not by legal logic, but by strategic calculation.这种立场明显自相矛盾。日本一方面声称遵守波茨坦公告，另一方面又依赖一个刻意模糊其明确内容的所谓“和约”。这种“双轨策略”源于战略算计，而非法律逻辑。Another key factor in Japan's Taiwan policy is the US-Japan security framework during the Cold War. During the early Cold War, the US regarded Taiwan as a critical strategic asset.影响日本台湾政策的另一关键因素是冷战时期的美日安全框架。在早期冷战中，美国将台湾视为重要战略资产。As China and Japan sat down to normalize ties in the 1970s, the US was deeply concerned about how Japan would address the Taiwan question in the negotiations. Tokyo repeatedly reassured Washington that the US-Japan alliance would not be affected and that the US would have access to bases for "Taiwan-related operations".当中日于上世纪70年代讨论邦交正常化时，美国高度关注日本在谈判中如何处理台湾问题。东京反复向华盛顿保证，美日同盟不会受影响，美国仍可使用驻日基地进行“涉台行动”。Even after normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations, Japanese officials stated that including Taiwan within the "Far East" framework served US strategic interests.即便中日实现邦交正常化，日本官员仍声称将台湾纳入“远东”框架符合美国战略利益。After the Cold War, Japan further strengthened these security linkages. The 1997 and 2015 revisions in the Guidelines for Japan-US Defense Cooperation broadened bilateral roles in regional contingencies, widely interpreted as including the Taiwan island.冷战结束后，日本进一步强化了这些安全联动。《日美防卫合作指针》于1997年和2015年的修订扩大了双方在地区突发事件中的角色，普遍被解读为涵盖台湾地区。Japan's 2015 security legislation tried to provide so-called "legal grounds" for supporting US military operations in a "crisis in Taiwan".日本2015年的安保法试图为日本在“台湾有事”时支持美国军事行动提供所谓“法律依据”。In 2021, for the first time since 1969, Japan and the US issued a joint statement expressing concerns over peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.2021年，美日首次自1969年以来在联合声明中对台湾海峡的和平与稳定表示关切。The recent provocative remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have severely damaged ties with China.日本首相高市早苗近期的挑衅性言论严重损害了中日关系。Speaking in the Japanese Diet, she claimed that a "Taiwan contingency" would constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan — the most explicit formulation ever made by a serving Japanese leader.她在国会中声称，“台湾有事”将构成日本的“存亡危机事态”——这是日本在任领导人迄今最明确的表述。Her statement not only breaks with Tokyo's long-standing strategic ambiguity but also signals a shift toward treating Taiwan as a core element of Japan's national security, which is a blatant violation of China's internal affairs.此言论不仅突破东京长期坚持的战略模糊，更表明日本正将台湾视为其国家安全核心要素，公然干涉中国内政。Japan's dual-track approach of offering political assurances to China while aligning with the US regional strategy during past US administrations has given Tokyo flexibility, but also created inconsistencies.日本过去以对华政治保证与配合美国地区战略并行的“双轨模式”虽为东京带来灵活性，却也造成了明显矛盾。Japan claims it abides by the Potsdam Proclamation but relies on the "San Francisco Peace Treaty", which China regards as invalid.日本声称遵守《波茨坦公告》，却依赖中国明确视为无效的《旧金山和约》。Japan reassures China that it does not support Taiwan independence and upholds the one-China principle, yet expands the scope of US-Japan military cooperation in ways that could involve Japan in "Taiwan contingencies".日本安抚中国，声称不支持“台独”并坚持一个中国原则，但同时不断扩大可能使其卷入“台湾有事”的美日军事合作范围。However, as the Chinese leadership and the incumbent US administration reaffirm the importance of managing the Taiwan question responsibly, Japan's increasingly explicit security framing stands in sharp contrast.然而，在中美领导层均强调负责任管控台湾问题的重要性之际，日本愈发明确的安全定位形成鲜明对比。Rather than reducing tensions, Tokyo's new rhetoric risks injecting additional uncertainty into an issue that the world's two major countries are actively seeking to stabilize.东京的新言论非但不会缓和局势，反而可能向这一中美共同努力稳定的问题注入更多不确定性。Fortunately on Nov 24, President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump held a phone conversation in which the Taiwan question was a central focus.所幸的是，11月24日，习近平主席与美国总统特朗普通话，台湾问题成为核心议题。President Xi elaborated on China's principled position, stressing that the restoration of Taiwan to China is an integral part of the post-war international order.习近平主席阐明了中方原则立场，强调台湾回归中国是战后国际秩序的重要组成部分。President Trump responded by expressing the US side's understanding of Taiwan's significance to China, signaling that even amid strategic competition, Washington acknowledges the sensitivity and centrality of the issue.特朗普总统表示美方理解台湾对中国的重要性，显示出即使在战略竞争中，美国也承认这一问题的敏感性和核心地位。Hopefully, the phone call between the Chinese and US top leaders, followed by another call between President Trump and Prime Minister Takaichi, has clearly conveyed China's unshakable stance on the Taiwan question to the Japanese politicians.希望中美元首的通话，以及随后特朗普总统与高市早苗的通话，已向日本政界清晰传达了中国在台湾问题上的坚定立场。Additionally, President Trump can demonstrate his political acumen by influencing Japan, encouraging the Japanese politician to correct her missteps.此外，特朗普总统也可通过劝导日本纠正其错误言论来展现政治智慧。For Japan, strategic ambiguity on the Taiwan question is a shield. From Japanese politicians' perspective, an explicit acknowledgment that Taiwan is part of China may undermine Japan's post-war "security architecture" and its flexibility to maneuver in the region's shifting geopolitical landscape.对日本而言，台湾问题上的战略模糊是一种“保护伞”。从其政界角度看，明确承认“台湾属于中国”可能冲击日本战后“安全架构”，削弱其在地区地缘政治变化中的操作空间。However, if Japan fully implements the latest remarks, it will be seen as a blatant infringement on China's integrity of sovereignty and territory, given that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China.然而，如果日本真正落实其最新言论，则将被视为公然侵犯中国主权和领土完整，因为台湾是中国不可分割的一部分。Such statements, made on the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), are evoking strong memories among the Chinese people of Japan's military past and also remind the people of the Asia-Pacific region of Japan's wartime atrocities in the region.在中国人民抗日战争（1931–45）80周年之际发表此类言论，更激起中国人民对日本军国主义历史的强烈记忆，也提醒亚太地区民众注意日本战争暴行的历史。It is crucial for Takaichi to retract her misguided remarks, especially at this highly sensitive time, as they risk paving the way for a revival of militarism that can threaten regional peace.在当前高度敏感的时期，高市早苗必须撤回其错误言论，因为这类言辞可能助长军事主义复活，威胁地区和平。The author is director-general of the Institute of Japanese Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and chairman of the Chinese Association for Japanese Studies.The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations实现外交关系正常化internal affairs内政Potsdam Proclamation《波茨坦公告》San Francisco Peace Treaty《旧金山和约》blatantly contradictory明显自相矛盾

① Ahead of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, President Xi Jinping says China firmly supports the Palestinian people. How can the international society better deliver fairness and justice to the Palestinian people? (00:55) ② China has vowed to unite compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to oppose Taiwan independence activities. What is the danger when Taiwan independence forces are emboldened by Japan's recent rhetoric and actions? (12:56) ③ China's CATL has begun building the largest battery factory in Spain. Will this project achieve a multiple-win result for different parties involved? (24:45) ④ China's ice and snow economy is likely to surpass 1 trillion yuan (about $140 billion) in 2025. What is driving the sector's growth boom? (33:43) ⑤ Argentina has unveiled a new migration office that features a police structure similar to the United States' Border Patrol. Why is President Javier Milei moving to tighten rules on immigration? (44:14)

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's refusal to retract her erroneous remarks on theTaiwan question, together with Tokyo's accelerating military buildup near China's doorstep, threatens to push China-Japan relations to a dangerous inflection point.日本首相高市早苗拒绝收回其在台湾问题上的错误言论，加之东京正在中国家门口加速军事扩张，这一态势可能将中日关系推向危险的转折点。By linking the Taiwan question to a "survival-threatening situation" and implying the possibility of Japan's armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait, Tokyo has not only touched China's red line but also shaken thepolitical foundation of bilateral relations.日本政府将台湾问题与“生存威胁”挂钩，并暗示日本可能对台湾海峡采取武装干预，此举不仅触碰了中国的红线，更动摇了双边关系的政治根基。Takaichi's remarks encapsulate a policy orientation that contradicts thesolemn commitments the Japanese government has made regarding the Taiwan question in the four political documents between China and Japan, which leave no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation.高市早苗的言论所体现的政策取向与日本政府在《中日四项政治文件》中就台湾问题作出的庄严承诺相悖，这些文件不留任何模棱两可或误解的余地。As Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized on Sunday, if Japan persists in its own way and keeps making the same mistakes, all countries and people who advocate justice have the right to reexamine Japan's historical crimes and the responsibility to resolutely prevent theresurgence of Japanese militarism.正如中国外交部长王毅周日强调的，如果日本一意孤行、重蹈覆辙，所有主张正义的国家与人民都有权重新审视日本的历史罪行，更有责任坚决防止日本军国主义死灰复燃。Recent developments have reinforced the gravity of the situation. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has announced that Tokyo will proceed with thedeployment of intermediate-range missiles on Yonaguni Island—barely 110 kilometers from China's Taiwan region—and the rapid expansion of Japan Self-Defense Forces' facilities across the Ryukyu Islands.近期一系列事态发展进一步凸显了局势的严峻性。日本防卫大臣小泉进次郎宣布，东京将推进在距中国台湾地区仅110公里的与那国岛部署中程导弹，并加速在琉球群岛全境扩建日本自卫队设施。These moves, as Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Monday, are a deliberate attempt to create regional tension and provoke military confrontation. They come alongside Japan's first export of lethal weapons since the relaxation of arms export rules and renewed discussions within the Liberal Democratic Party on revising the three non-nuclear principles upheld by Japan and further increasing its defense spending.正如中国外交部发言人毛宁周一所言，这些举动是蓄意制造地区紧张局势、挑起军事对抗的行径。与此同时，日本在放宽武器出口规则后首次出口致命武器，自民党内部也重新讨论修改日本奉行的“三无核原则”，并进一步增加国防开支。The Potsdam Declaration clearly prohibits Japan from rearming and Japan's pacifist Constitution establishes the exclusive defense-oriented principle. High vigilance from the international community is imperative given Tokyo's obvious intent to brush this principle aside.《波茨坦公告》明确禁止日本重新武装，而日本和平宪法确立了以防卫为宗旨的排他性原则。鉴于东京方面明显有意无视这一原则，国际社会必须保持高度警惕。The moves Japan has taken since Takaichi took office last month all demonstrate Japan is trying to break free from the bounds imposed on it by the postwar arrangement that sought to prevent a repeat of its aggression. The international community therefore has every reason to ask—what exactly is Japan seeking to achieve?自上月高市早苗上任以来，日本采取的一系列举措都表明，该国正试图摆脱战后为防止其侵略历史重蹈覆辙而设定的桎梏。因此，国际社会完全有理由追问：日本究竟意欲何为？China has noted Japan mentioning its "consistent position" on the Taiwan question, but as the Foreign Ministry spokeswoman asked, what exactly is this so-called "consistent position"? Can Japan fully and publicly articulate it? If Japan merely reiterates the concept of "an unchanged position", while remaining vague about its specific content and constantly overstepping its boundaries with its actions, then such reiteration is empty rhetoric.中方注意到日方提及在台湾问题上的“一贯立场”，但正如外交部发言人所问，所谓“一贯立场”究竟是什么？日本能否完整、公开地阐述？如果日本只是重复“立场不变”的概念，对具体内容含糊其辞，同时不断以行动越界，那么这种重复不过是空话。Sino-Japanese relations cannot be built on ambiguity, provocation or historical amnesia, which would only become a prelude to repeated history.中日关系不能建立在模糊不清、挑衅和历史遗忘之上，这些只会成为历史重演的前奏。The historical parallel is chilling. The use of pretexts such as "survival-threatening situation" has been a recurring tactic of Japanese militarism—from its 1931 invasion of Northeast China to the expansion of its aggression across Asia and the attack on Pearl Harbor. As the Chinese nation marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, the alarm cannot be ignored. It seems the only thing the Takaichi government learns from history is that it learns nothing from history.历史的相似性令人不寒而栗。日本军国主义屡屡以“生存威胁”等借口为由发动侵略——从1931年侵占中国东北，到在亚洲扩张侵略，再到袭击珍珠港。值此中华民族迎来抗日战争暨世界反法西斯战争胜利八十周年之际，这般警钟不容忽视。高市早苗政府从历史中汲取的唯一教训，似乎就是“不汲取任何教训”。Japan's current stance also tramples on historical facts. For half a century, Japan forcibly occupied China's Taiwan island, inflicting enormous suffering on the local population. Taiwan's restoration to China is explicitly affirmed in the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation and the Japanese Instrument of Surrender. Taiwan is China's inalienable territory—this is not only a matter of sovereignty but also an integral part of the postwar international order. Japan is the least qualified to make irresponsible remarks on Taiwan, and any attempt to interfere will not be tolerated.日本当前的立场也践踏了历史事实。半个世纪以来，日本强占中国台湾岛，给当地民众造成巨大苦难。《开罗宣言》《波茨坦公告》和《日本投降书》都明确确认台湾回归中国。台湾是中国不可分割的领土——这不仅是主权问题，也是战后国际秩序的重要组成部分。日本最无资格对台湾问题妄加评论，任何干涉企图都绝不容忍。The consequences of Japan's wrongful words and deeds are already emerging. The Chinese people's outrage is real, and it is affecting bilateral exchanges—from declining tourist flows and canceled flights to a reduced market for Japanese products. These are the natural results of public indignation toward provocations that harm China's core interests.日本的妄言妄行已然引发后果。中国人民的愤慨是真实的，正影响着双边交流。从游客减少、航班取消到日本商品市场萎缩，这些都是公众对损害中国核心利益的挑衅行为感到愤慨的自然结果。If Japan truly wants "constructive and stable ties" with China as Tokyo claims, the Takaichi government must first retract the erroneous remarks, take earnest steps to honor its commitments, and stop crossing China's red line on the Taiwan question. Merely asserting that its position has not changed while acting in direct contradiction to that claim will only escalate tensions.如果日本真心希望与中方建立“建设性稳定关系”，正如其一再宣称的那样，高市早苗政府首先必须收回错误言论，切实履行承诺，停止在台湾问题上触碰中国红线。仅声称立场未变却采取与之相悖的行动，只会加剧紧张局势。Taiwan question台湾问题political foundation of bilateral relations双边关系政治基础solemn commitment郑重承诺deployment of intermediate-range missiles中程导弹部署resurgence n./rɪˈsɝː.dʒəns/复苏；兴起；再次兴起；死灰复燃

Beijing urged Tokyo on Friday to take practical steps to honor its commitments to China if it wants to develop a strategic, mutually beneficial relationship with the country.中方于周五敦促日方，如果希望推进中日战略互惠关系的发展，就必须以实际行动履行对华承诺。Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning made the remarks after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi affirmed in an interview the unchanged stance of advancing the strategic relations between China and Japan of mutual benefit.此前，日本首相高市早苗在采访中声称，将继续推动中日战略互惠关系。对此，中国外交部发言人毛宁作出上述回应。“If Japan truly hopes to develop the strategic relationship of mutual benefit with China and make the relationship a constructive and stable one fit for the new era, Japan needs to uphold the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries and its political commitments, retract the erroneous remarks at once and take practical steps to honor its commitments to China,” Mao said.毛宁表示：“如果日本真正希望推动中日战略互惠关系，使其成为契合新时代的建设性、稳定性关系，就必须恪守两国四个政治文件的精神及自身政治承诺，立即撤回错误言论，并以实际行动履行对华承诺。”The blatant and erroneous remarks on Taiwan made by the Japanese prime minister earlier this month implied the possibility of Japan intervening in the Taiwan Strait by force, which triggered outrage and condemnation from the Chinese people, Mao said at a daily news conference in Beijing. China firmly opposes such moves, she said.她指出，日本首相本月早些时候就台湾问题发表的明显错误言论暗示日本可能以武力干预台湾海峡局势，引发中国民众强烈愤慨与谴责。中方对此表示坚决反对。Mao also slammed Japan's recent moves of breaking free from its exclusively defense-oriented principle and speeding up rearmament, warning that going back to the path of militarism will only “end in failure”.毛宁同时批评日本近来不断突破“专守防卫”原则、加速推动军事扩张，警告日本重回军国主义道路只会“以失败告终”。It was reported that Japan has exported domestically produced Patriot surface-to-air missile interceptors to the United States for the first time under eased restrictions on arms exports.报道称，在放宽武器出口限制后，日本首次向美国出口国产“爱国者”防空导弹拦截系统。There are also reports saying that Japan's Liberal Democratic Party has begun discussions on revising the three non-nuclear principles of not possessing, not producing and not permitting the introduction of nuclear weapons, as well as increasing defense spending.另有报道称，日本自民党开始讨论修改“不拥有、不制造、不引进”核武器的三原则，并计划进一步提高防卫开支。In recent years, Japan has been easing the restrictions and seeking military buildup, Mao noted.毛宁指出，近年来日本不断放宽限制，谋求军事扩张。While claiming it hopes to build a world free of nuclear weapons, Japan is actually strengthening cooperation on extended deterrence and even seeking to revise its three non-nuclear principles to open the door for enabling nuclear sharing arrangements.她批评日本一边宣称希望构建无核武世界，一边却加强所谓“延伸威慑”合作，甚至试图修改三原则，为“核共享”打开大门。“What exactly is Japan seeking to achieve?” Mao asked. “If Japan seeks to go back to the path of militarism, violate its commitment to peaceful development and disrupt postwar international order, the Chinese people as well as the international community will not allow it,” she said.毛宁质问：“日本究竟想要做什么？”她强调：“如果日本企图重走军国主义道路，违背和平发展承诺，破坏战后国际秩序，中国人民和国际社会都不会允许。”honor one's commitments履行承诺strategic relationship of mutual benefit战略互惠关系surface-to-air missile interceptor地对空导弹拦截器military buildup军事扩张

After five long years since ⁠his last ChinaTalk appearance⁠, Jake Sullivan returns to the show! We discuss… Sullivan's experience managing crises, implementing grand strategy, and cultivating leadership skills during the Biden administration, The art of crafting aggressive industrial policy, from chips to rare earths to infrastructure,  The risk of miscalculation in the Taiwan Strait, and whether Pelosi's Taipei visit was a mistake, Russia's nuclear brinkmanship and the development of Biden's posture on Ukraine, Whether Trump can succeed at ratcheting down tensions with China. Check out Sullivan's new podcast, The Long Game (⁠Apple⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠) Reading recommendations: ⁠Feeding Ghosts⁠ ⁠The Social History of the Machine Gun⁠ ⁠To Run the World A reminder: this is the conversation I wanted to have with Jake, not the one you want to have. For other recent interviews that get more into the Biden administration around the withdrawal of Afghanistan, the pace of arming Ukraine, and America's handling of Israel's invasion of Gaza, see all these six other shows he's done this year.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After five long years since ⁠his last ChinaTalk appearance⁠, Jake Sullivan returns to the show! We discuss… Sullivan's experience managing crises, implementing grand strategy, and cultivating leadership skills during the Biden administration, The art of crafting aggressive industrial policy, from chips to rare earths to infrastructure,  The risk of miscalculation in the Taiwan Strait, and whether Pelosi's Taipei visit was a mistake, Russia's nuclear brinkmanship and the development of Biden's posture on Ukraine, Whether Trump can succeed at ratcheting down tensions with China. Check out Sullivan's new podcast, The Long Game (⁠Apple⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠) Reading recommendations: ⁠Feeding Ghosts⁠ ⁠The Social History of the Machine Gun⁠ ⁠To Run the World A reminder: this is the conversation I wanted to have with Jake, not the one you want to have. For other recent interviews that get more into the Biden administration around the withdrawal of Afghanistan, the pace of arming Ukraine, and America's handling of Israel's invasion of Gaza, see all these six other shows he's done this year.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On November 7, during a parliamentary debate, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said that the Chinese mainland's "use of force on Taiwan" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, implying the possibility of Japan's armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait. This has sparked a wave of unprecedented reactions from China, including stern diplomatic protests and live-fire drills at sea. The situation shows no sign of easing as Takaichi has refused to retract her remarks so far. What exactly did she say? Why is China so angry? Has China overreacted, as some suggested?

Chinese exports are booming—but ties with the U.S. are collapsing. Across Asia, from Beijing to Manila, Washington's shifting strategy under Trump is reshaping alliances and testing security guarantees that have underpinned the region for decades. Eric speaks with James Crabtree, a distinguished visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations and the Asia Society, about how Asia's leaders are adapting to a world in flux: China's mix of confidence and anxiety amid its own economic slowdown How Trump's erratic policy is breaking apart the anti-China coalition Growing doubts in Tokyo, Seoul, and Manila about U.S. security guarantees Taiwan's precarious position and fears of being left alone Vietnam's balancing act between U.S. tariffs and China's dominance Why India is quietly building backup plans with Europe JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @eric_olander Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth Now on Bluesky! Follow CGSP at @chinagsproject.bsky.social FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth

SummaryIn this episode of Midrats, the hosts discuss a range of topics related to national security, military strategy, and current events. They reflect on the 25th anniversary of the USS Cole attack, analyze the ongoing dynamics in the Middle East, and explore the implications of military presence and partnerships. The conversation also delves into submarine capabilities, logistics challenges, and innovations in supply chain solutions. Additionally, they touch on mine warfare, military pay issues, and the Navy's upcoming 250th anniversary, concluding with a debate on the relevance of battleships in modern warfare.Show LinksMidrats Podcast with Kirk LippoldJapan Will Arm Its Submarines With Long-Range Cruise Missiles, Thomas Newdick at TWZ.Can the President Pay Troops During a Government Shutdown?, at GovFactsHypersonic-Armed Destroyers and Submarines are Relocating to Hawaii, Carter Johnson at Naval News.Fighting China, Fast and Slow: The Real Logistics Challenge in the Taiwan Strait, Maximilian K. Bremer and Kelly A. Grieco at Foreign AffairsU.S. Guided-missile Sub Makes Rare Appearance in the Philippines, Sam LaGrone at USNI News.The Battleship Continues to Haunt the US Navy, by James Holmes at The National InterestTakeawaysThe USS Cole attack marked a significant turning point in U.S. military operations overseas.Current peace efforts in the Middle East may provide a unique opportunity for stability.Military presence in strategic regions is crucial for maintaining alliances and deterrence.Submarine capabilities are essential for modern naval warfare and need to be prioritized.Japan's military developments indicate a shift in regional security dynamics.Logistics challenges remain a critical concern for U.S. military operations.Innovative supply chain solutions are necessary for sustaining military forces in conflict zones.Mine warfare is an underappreciated aspect of naval strategy that requires attention.Military pay and accountability are fundamental responsibilities of leadership.The Navy's 250th anniversary serves as a reminder of its historical significance and ongoing evolution.Chapters00:00: Introduction03:40: Reflecting on the USS Cole Attack10:27: Current Middle East Dynamics and Peace Efforts15:22: Military Strategy and International Relations20:11: Logistics Challenges in Modern Warfare29:33: Creating Targeting Problems in Warfare32:29: Addressing Cargo Capacity Challenges33:23: Leveraging Allies for Shipbuilding35:37: The Importance of Mine Warfare37:10: Ensuring Military Pay During Budget Crises41:06: Supporting Military Relief Organizations43:44: Celebrating the Navy's 250th Anniversary46:50: The Debate on Battleships' Relevance53:13: Future of Naval Warfare and Technology

CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW SCHEDULE  9-5 GOOD EVENING: The show begins in Las Vegas as the Strip struggles with decline. FIRST HOUR 9-915 Jeff Bliss, Las Vegas Tourism Decline and Anaheim Development Jeff Bliss reports a significant decline in Las Vegas tourism, with a 12% drop in visitors, which he attributes to the city's nickel and diming practices by major corporations like MGM and Caesar's Palace, coupled with the rise of online gambling. Despite increased gaming revenue, the broader city economy, including restaurants and hotels not part of the strip, is suffering. Vegas resorts are now offering discounts and food credits to attract visitors. Nevada's unique lack of a state lottery, forcing residents to cross state lines for games like Powerball, also highlights a peculiar disadvantage. In Anaheim, a proposed skyway/gondola system aims to connect Disneyland, hotels, and sports venues. 915-930 Brandon Weichert, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Economic Impact Brandon Weichert and John Batchelor discuss artificial intelligence and quantum computing, with Weichert expressing optimism for AI's long-term economic benefits, though he finds a 7% GDP growth projection very optimistic. He believes AI will augment, not replace, human work, leading to positive productivity gains over time, especially in manufacturing and tech sectors. The conversation touches on AI's current competitiveness in generating novel research hypotheses, nearly matching humans in a Science magazine study, but humans still slightly lead in designing experiments. Weichertsees quantum computing as the next breakthrough 930-945  Professor Richard Epstein, Federal Power, National Guard Deployment, and University Funding Professor Richard Epstein discusses two cases involving the Trump administration's use of federal power. First, he analyzes Judge Charles Brier's ruling that Trump's deployment of National Guard troops for immigration enforcement in Southern California was partially illegal, citing the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act. Epstein distinguishes between protecting federal interests and overstepping into local policing, as with traffic violations or raids far from Los Angeles. He criticizes the political polarization between Trump and Governor Gavin Newsom for hindering cooperation during emergencies. Second, Epstein addresses Judge Allison Burroughs' interim decision against Trump's freezing of Harvard's research funds over anti-Semitism allegations, warning of long-term damage to US medical research. 945-1000 CONTINUED Professor Richard Epstein, Federal Power, National Guard Deployment, and University FundingProfessor Richard Epstein discusses two cases involving the Trump administration's use of federal power. First, he analyzes Judge Charles Brier's ruling that Trump's deployment of National Guard troops for immigration enforcement in Southern California was partially illegal, citing the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act. Epstein distinguishes between protecting federal interests and overstepping into local policing, as with traffic violations or raids far from Los Angeles. He criticizes the political polarization between Trump and Governor Gavin Newsom for hindering cooperation during emergencies. Second, Epstein addresses Judge Allison Burroughs' interim decision against Trump's freezing of Harvard's research funds over anti-Semitism allegations, warning of long-term damage to US medical research. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 Bradley Bowman, Chinese Military Parade and US Security Bradley Bowman discusses a recent massive Chinese military parade, noting the presence of Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un, with the president of Iran also in attendance. He views the parade as a demonstration of China's decades-long effort to build a military capable of defeating the US in the Pacific, highlighting the erosion of American security and increased likelihood of a Taiwan Strait conflict. Specific concerns include modernized hypersonic YJ seriesanti-ship missiles challenging US naval interception, the DF61 intercontinental ballistic missile aimed at the US, and a low-observable tailless drone for manned fighters.1015-1030 Conrad Black, Canadian Politics, Mr. Carney's Government, and Regional Challenges Conrad Black discusses the challenges facing Mr. Carney's new Canadian government, particularly the unrest in Alberta. Carney's extreme green views threaten Alberta's oil and ranching economy, leading to a significant separatist movement that could see the province join the United States if its energy exports aren't facilitated. Black notes that Carney has yet to reveal his plans to address this or the historical cultural and political challenges posed by Quebec, a wealthy province with aspirations for independence. Carney has been robust on national security, agreeing with President Trump that Canada needs increased defense spending.1030-1045 Jim McTague, Lancaster County Economy and National Job Market Jim McTague provides an optimistic view of Lancaster County's economy, contrasting with national job market slowdowns. He notes low unemployment at 3.4% and no personal reports of job losses. The county's economy is buoyed by affluent retirees, who contribute millions to local restaurants and businesses, and a booming tourism sector attracting 10 million visitors annually. McTague highlights the importance of agriculture and the Amish culture as economic backbones. However, housing prices are significantly elevated, posing a challenge for younger, lower-wage workers. Growth is concentrated in suburban townships due to a superior healthcare industry and expanding data centers and pharmaceutical companies attracting professionals.1045-1100 CONTINUED Jim McTague, Lancaster County Economy and National Job Market Jim McTague provides an optimistic view of Lancaster County's economy, contrasting with national job market slowdowns. He notes low unemployment at 3.4% and no personal reports of job losses. The county's economy is buoyed by affluent retirees, who contribute millions to local restaurants and businesses, and a booming tourism sector attracting 10 million visitors annually. McTague highlights the importance of agriculture and the Amish culture as economic backbones. However, housing prices are significantly elevated, posing a challenge for younger, lower-wage workers. Growth is concentrated in suburban townships due to a superior healthcare industry and expanding data centers and pharmaceutical companies attracting professionals. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 Molly Beer, Angelica Schuyler Church and the American Revolution Molly Beer discusses Angelica Schuyler Church (1755-1814), a prominent figure during the American Revolution. Born to the influential Schuyler family in Albany, Angelica was well-educated, a trait uncommon for women of her time but typical for Dutch families. She eloped with John Carter (later John Barker Church), much to her family's dismay, a decision perhaps driven by love for the cosmopolitan Englishman. Angelica was deeply involved in the revolutionary cause, supporting the French army and maintaining a strong patriotic identity even while living in London after the war. She cultivated extensive connections with key figures like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and Lafayette .1115-1130 CONTINUED Molly Beer, Angelica Schuyler Church and the American Revolution 1130-1145 CONTINUED Molly Beer, Angelica Schuyler Church and the American Revolution Molly Beer discusses 1145-1200 CONTINUED Molly Beer, Angelica Schuyler Church and the American Revolution Molly Beer . FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 Henry Sokolski, Plutonium, Nuclear Proliferation, and International Debate Henry Sokolski discusses the global debate surrounding plutonium, a highly poisonous substance used in nuclear weapons, especially by China, South Korea, and Britain. He explains that plutonium can be extracted from nuclear power reactors and quickly used to make a bomb, similar to the Nagasaki weapon. Sokolski criticizes the US Energy Department for suggesting that new reactor designs like Natrium and Ollo can extract plutonium while leaving enough radionuclides to prevent bomb-making, a claim previously debunked by studies. He highlights proliferation risks, citing South Korea's historical attempts to use civil reprocessing to acquire nuclear weapons.1215-1230 Jack Burnham, Manhattan Project Lessons for AI and US-China Talent Competition Jack Burnham explains that China views the Manhattan Project as a key lesson in harnessing international talent for national strategic goals, particularly in artificial intelligence. The US successfully recruited theoretical physicists fleeing Nazi Germany, nurturing a scientific reserve for the atomic bomb project. Burnham notes that after World War II, the US continued to prioritize basic science funding, leading to its technological edge. However, he suggests the US is currently struggling with this, as funding issues and regulatory uncertainty are driving American scientists abroad and limiting foreign talent attraction while countries like China, the EU, France, and Canada actively recruit US scientists.1230-1245 Nathaniel Peters, The Nature of Murder and Evil in Andrew Klavan's "The Kingdom of Cain" Nathaniel Peters reviews Andrew Klavan's "The Kingdom of Cain," which explores murder and evil through fiction and real-life examples. Klavan, a former atheist, was propelled to faith by Klavan, a former atheist, was propelled to faith by pondering evil, suggesting that recognizing objective moral order is necessary to condemn acts like those of the Marquis de Sade. The book examines Leopold and Loeb, who murdered to prove their superiority and live beyond good and evil, but left a crucial clue, highlighting their human fallibility. Klavan also considers Dostoevsky's Raskolnikov, whose rationalized yet pointless murder leads to a breakdown of his self-deception. Klavan argues artistic creation, like Michelangelo's Pietà, can redeem or transform the subject of art.1245-100 AM CONTINUED Nathaniel Peters, The Nature of Murder and Evil in Andrew Klavan's "The Kingdom of Cain" Nathaniel Peters reviews Andrew Klavan's "The Kingdom of Cain," which explores murder and evil through fiction and real-life examples. Klavan, a former atheist, was propelled to faith by pondering evil, suggesting that recognizing objective moral order is necessary to condemn acts like those of the Marquis de Sade. The book examines Leopold and Loeb, who murdered to prove their superiority and live beyond good and evil, but left a crucial clue, highlighting their human fallibility. Klavan also considers Dostoevsky's Raskolnikov, whose rationalized yet pointless murder leads to a breakdown of his self-deception. Klavan argues artistic creation, like Michelangelo's Pietà, can redeem or transform the subject of art.

Bradley Bowman, Chinese Military Parade and US Security Bradley Bowman discusses a recent massive Chinese military parade, noting the presence of Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un, with the president of Iran also in attendance. He views the parade as a demonstration of China's decades-long effort to build a military capable of defeating the US in the Pacific, highlighting the erosion of American security and increased likelihood of a Taiwan Strait conflict. Specific concerns include modernized hypersonic YJ seriesanti-ship missiles challenging US naval interception, the DF61 intercontinental ballistic missile aimed at the US, and a low-observable tailless drone for manned fighters. 11908 PEKING