Taiwan Plans Record Military Budget of $19.7 Billion

Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te has not explicitly named China as the primary threat to the island's stability, yet it remains the central concern for Taiwanese officials. Following President Tsai Ing-wen's administration, China has labeled both Tsai and Lai as "separatists" and has intensified efforts to diplomatically isolate Taiwan. In response to perceived threats, Taiwan has steadily increased its military budget over the past five years, with a proposal that could elevate its global military spending rank to 21st, while China and the U.S. hold the second and first positions, respectively. The U.S. has been advocating for Taiwan to bolster its defense spending in light of the growing Chinese military assertiveness. Many young Taiwanese citizens have expressed a willingness to defend their homeland, seeking to make their mandatory military service more impactful. However, challenges remain, particularly in the training of Taiwan's two-million-strong reserve force, which is deemed crucial for any prolonged conflict. Reserve officers have voiced concerns over inadequate funding for essential training programs. The urgency of Taiwan's military readiness has been underscored by the recent release of a trailer for the Taiwanese TV show "Zero Day," which depicts a hypothetical Chinese invasion. The show has sparked significant public discourse, with some viewers feeling it portrays the government unfavorably, suggesting a lack of concern for citizens' welfare. The intense reactions to the trailer indicate its potential to influence political sentiment, reflecting the complex emotions surrounding Taiwan's defense and identity in the face of external threats.