The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has extended it’s naval exercises around the island nation of Taiwan (Republic of China – ROC) beyond it’s previously stated end on Monday morning (CNN). The PRC has stated the extension is in response to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit at the beginning of the maneuvers. They have also cut out of all talks scheduled with the US.

Xi’s intimidation and manipulation game is obvious. This is the childish stuff of Old World tyrants. He intimidates the island hoping the fearful in the ROC will turn against their own government. He uses propaganda to stoke the nationalists in his own nation – boosting his popularity among his base. Using the excuse to cut out of talks with the US over Pelosi’s visit appeals to the fearful in the States (Politico). It gives them the mental excuse to deny the threat of China and blame it on a congresswoman. The cowardly avoid admitting to themselves they fear of Xi.

Breaking News! Important PRC officials, propagandists and Xi read the US news.

“In an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) backed the House speaker’s travel to Taiwan and tied the two foreign policy issues together — warning that China is watching how the U.S. continues to respond to Russia’s attack on Ukraine as the war nears its sixth month.” – Politico

The two senators are urging Biden’s administration to increase military assistance to Ukraine and Taiwan in response to the actions of the PRC. They rightfully say the Chinese are watching to see if US support of Ukraine wanes. Their bipartisan request is admirable.

It is time to recognize the Republic of China as an independent nation.

Related; Taiwan, the Republic of China