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ChinaMilitary

US ‘decapitation’ strike on Venezuela sparks PLA copycat fears in Taiwan

Taipei says its military stands ready, but security experts warn about Beijing’s ability to quickly pivot from drills to actual combat

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PLA soldiers fire a rocket into the air during military drills on Pingtan island in Fujian province, the mainland’s closest point to Taiwan, on December 30. Photo: AFP
Lawrence Chungin Taipei
The US “decapitation-style” operation against Venezuela’s leadership has heightened concerns in Taiwan that Beijing could one day attempt a similar strike against the island, even though Taipei has played down such a possibility.

The anxiety has been amplified by the People’s Liberation Army’s two-day drills around Taiwan last week, parts of which simulated joint operations aimed at paralysing political and military command structures – a scenario analysts say echoes elements of leadership “decapitation”.

While Taiwanese officials insist their armed forces are prepared for all contingencies, security experts have warned Taipei not to rule out such a possibility as Beijing refines its ability to pivot rapidly from exercises to real-world operations.

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US forces on Saturday were reported to have carried out a surprise, intelligence-driven operation in the Venezuelan capital, swiftly capturing president Nicolas Maduro and his wife and transporting them to New York to stand trial on narco-terrorism and other charges. The US side incurred no casualties, according to the White House.

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Trump pledges to keep Venezuelan oil flowing to China after Maduro capture

Trump pledges to keep Venezuelan oil flowing to China after Maduro capture

The shocking raid has triggered heated debate in Taiwan, with supporters of the US action saying it showcased Washington’s unrivalled precision, intelligence integration and operational reach.

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