As you’ve probably seen, U.S. officials are becoming more concerned about China’s retaliation if House Speaker Nancy Pelosi goes on her proposed visit to Taiwan in August. In response to this, retired Vice Adm. Robert B. Murrett, the Deputy Director of the Syracuse University Institute for Security Policy and Law, and is a faculty member in the Department of Public Administration and International Affairs in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, writes:
“The comments by the PRC leadership with regard to a possible upcoming visit to Taiwan by Speaker Pelosi reflect the ongoing challenges that the U.S. has in managing the ‘strategic ambiguity’ policy on Taiwan. In particular, the timing of such a visit by the Speaker (which could happen over the next several weeks) should be looked at in the context of other related activity, including military operations and exercises in the Pacific.
To step back from this particular issue, U.S./China policy on Taiwan has been successfully managed for several decades. As the U.S. and our allies continue to deter China from further threatening Taiwan, we should at the same time communicate that we strive to keep cross-strait tensions at a manageable level, as armed conflict over Taiwan is not in the interests of China nor the United States and our partners.”
Additionally, Gen. Mark Milley mentioned China’s military has become more aggressive over the last five years. Murrett said Milley’s remarks are very appropriate and helpful, and the perspective that is needed from a Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (as well as a Secretary of Defense).
