It’s Time to Get Clear with Taiwan

Thank you for inviting me to this public debate. I am a college professor and head of the university’s School of Foreign Affairs and Service. Before I get into whether the US government should adopt Strategic Ambiguity, Strategic Clarity or an alternative strategy, let us first start with the current situation between China and Taiwan. 

China just raised the stakes in the Taiwan strait. Last October, they sent a staggering 153 military aircraft and 26 warships towards Taiwan in a single day. That is not just flexing - it’s a clear message that America’s decades old “strategic ambiguity” policy isn't working anymore.

Back then, being vague about whether the United States will defend Taiwan made sense. America ruled the Pacific waves, and China’s military was a shadow of what it is today. But times have changed. China is now running a full scale invasion rehearsal with their “Joint Swords” exercises, practicing how to blockade Taiwan’s ports and assault the island. Meanwhile, their coast guard patrols Taiwan’s waters in a show of dominance calling it “punishment” just because Taiwan’s president dared to call China “China” instead of the “Mainland.” 

The United States is not alone in their concerns. Japan declared that any threat to Taiwan is a threat to them, and Australia is right there with them. Our allies can see what’s coming- and they’re choosing sides, and now it is time for the United States to do the same. 

Here’s the bottom line: being deliberately vague about defending Taiwan isn’t preventing conflict anymore; it is inviting it. While the US is playing word games, China is practicing blockages and invasion. It is time for the United States to speak plainly and adopt “Strategic Clarity.” The United States should make it clear that if you mess with Taiwan, you’re messing with us and our allies. That’s not warmongering- it’s preventing a war by ensuring everyone knows exactly where they stand.

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