G7 scolding of China, Russia sparks Taiwan and Ukraine comparisons

A move by G7 leaders last week to castigate China and Russia over their treatment of Taiwan and Ukraine has reopened a lively discussion among commentators about the merits of comparing the self-ruled island with the Eastern European country.

The comparisons come amid increased Chinese military activity in the Taiwan Strait, and after Russia mobilised its forces in Crimea and along its border with Ukraine.

While analysts are divided over whether the increase in military tensions constitute sabre-rattling on Beijing and Moscow’s part, or are indeed preparations for war, any conflict will be a test for Washington – not only forcing tough choices on President Joe Biden, but threatening his administration’s goal of reasserting US leadership in both Europe and Asia.

Within Taiwan, Ukraine comparisons do resonate periodically, such as when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. This triggered concerns that the island off the coast of mainland China’s Fujian province – which Beijing regards as part of its territory to be reunited by force, if necessary – might soon follow in the formerly Ukrainian peninsula‘s footsteps.