Taiwan is reportedly “preparing for war” with Communist China amid Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s controversial visits to the island nation.
According to local news reports, the Taiwanese military is canceling some soldiers’ leave and preparing its air defense forces.
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) repeatedly issued threats ahead of the speaker’s expected visit.
Even Democrat President Joe Biden has said the military does not think the trip is a “good idea right now.”
“We would like to tell the US once again that China is standing by, and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army will never sit idly by,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters on Monday.
“China will take resolute responses and strong countermeasures to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
He continued by warning about the “egregious political impact” of Pelosi’s trip.
Zhao added: “As for what measures, if she dares to go, then let’s wait and see.”
Pelosi arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday, making the highest-level visit by a U.S. official in 25 years, the New York Times reported.
Earlier, Chinese state media threatened to shoot down Pelosi’s plane if it was being escorted by U.S. fighter jets.
National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirmed Monday the U.S. would ensure the speaker has a “safe and secure visit.”
Kirby also tried to downplay the impact of her travel plans.
“We have been nothing but clear with the Chinese about where we stand on the issues and the ‘One China’ policy and our support for a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he said.
“It is not without precedent for a Speaker of the House to go to Taiwan — if she goes, and I’m not confirming that she is.
“And it’s certainly not without precedent for members of Congress to travel to Taiwan.
“It has been done this year, and I’m certain that it will be done in the future.”
After arriving on Tuesday, Pelosi is expected to stay overnight and leave on Wednesday.
