Appeasing Putin: A Dangerous Precedent That Will Only Embolden China

As global tensions rise, the decisions made by world leaders have consequences that ripple far beyond immediate conflicts. One of the most pressing issues today is the West's response to Russian aggression in Ukraine and how this reaction—or lack thereof—could influence China's ambitions toward Taiwan. Rewarding or appeasing Russian President Vladimir Putin after his invasion of Ukraine is not just a regional miscalculation; it's a geopolitical blunder that risks undermining global stability.

The Danger of Rewarding Aggression

History teaches us that appeasing aggressors rarely leads to peace. The West's hesitance to firmly counter Putin's invasion of Ukraine sends a dangerous message: that territorial conquest through military force can be tolerated or even rewarded. Such a stance not only betrays Ukraine but also encourages other authoritarian regimes to pursue their expansionist goals unchecked.

China, with its stated goal of "reunifying" Taiwan by any means necessary, is watching closely. If the West capitulates to Russian aggression, Chinese leadership may interpret this as a green light to advance on Taiwan. A successful land grab by Russia without significant consequences would set a precedent that military force yields rewards, emboldening China to test the international community's resolve.

The Taiwan Factor: Why It Matters

Taiwan is more than just a regional flashpoint; it is a symbol of democratic resilience and a critical player in the global economy, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Ninety percent of the world's chips are made there. ?A Chinese invasion of Taiwan would not only devastate the island's population but also disrupt global supply chains and spark economic turmoil worldwide. The stakes are too high to ignore.

How to Dissuade China From Aggression

To prevent a catastrophic chain of events, the West must adopt a strategy that goes beyond rhetoric:

1. Don't let Putin Gain Anything from His Aggression.?If Putin gains land and concessions from his murderous invasion, it sends a clear signal to China that maybe they can get away with their planned invasion as well.?
2. Strengthen Alliances: Reinforce military and economic alliances in the Asia-Pacific region. Joint military exercises and defense pacts with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia can present a united front.
3. Economic Deterrence: Implement clear and immediate economic consequences for any aggression toward Taiwan. China relies heavily on global markets, and the threat of coordinated sanctions could serve as a powerful deterrent.
4. Support Taiwan Militarily: Provide Taiwan with advanced defense systems and training. A well-prepared Taiwan is less vulnerable and more capable of deterring potential invaders.
5. Diplomatic Clarity: Communicate unequivocally that any aggressive move toward Taiwan will be met with unified international resistance. Mixed messages or diplomatic ambiguity only invite risk.

The Trump Factor: Compounding the Risk

Complicating matters is the shifting stance of President Donald Trump, who has downplayed Russia's aggression while sowing uncertainty about America's commitment to its allies. By undermining NATO and hinting at withdrawing support for Ukraine, Trump risks fracturing the transatlantic alliance that has been crucial in maintaining global peace. Such a move doesn't just hurt Europe; it emboldens adversaries globally, including China.

Leadership Matters

Appeasing Putin is not a strategy; it is a surrender that invites further aggression. The world cannot afford to reward territorial conquest with diplomatic concessions or economic leniency. A firm, united stance against Russia is essential not only for Ukraine but also to dissuade China from making similar calculations regarding Taiwan.

Failure to act decisively now risks emboldening authoritarian regimes, destabilizing global economies, and compromising the democratic values that the international community claims to uphold. Putin has never been weaker; now is the time to apply more pressure, not hand him what he wants on a plate. Leadership matters. The time to show it is now.

https://www.andrewwood.life/posts/why-trumps-unilateral-concessions-to-russia-could-ignite-war-in-europe