Economic squeeze, not naval might, is key to Taiwan’s security


Source: afr.com afr.com

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The reality is that China’s decision-making process makes it practically impossible for him to be deterred militarily. Having replaced collective leadership by strongman rule, Xi has removed any scope for the military top brass to defer to American deterrence as none can appear weak without being punished. The prospect of enormous casualties and long-term Taiwanese resistance cannot deter Xi either, as they would not threaten his hold on power. The only effective deterrence is an economic one, one that will completely devastate China’s economy and thus put his hold on power at risk. Economic deterrence can work as China’s economy...