The situation around Taiwan continues to heat up, and now former US National Security Advisor retired Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster, has joined the discussion. According to him, China is actively preparing its armed forces for a possible forceful operation to regain control of the island.
Tensions between Beijing and Taipei have lasted for decades. Taiwan considers itself an independent state, while China invariably calls the island part of its territory and seeks “reunification.” Recently, Beijing’s rhetoric has become noticeably tougher, causing concern not only in the region but also far beyond.
China’s Military Preparations Raise Global Concerns
McMaster was unequivocal in an interview with CBS News: judging by Xi Jinping’s statements, China clearly intends to bring Taiwan back under its control. “Xi Jinping is explicitly saying that China needs to become unified, and Taiwan plays a key role in that,” the general said. According to him, the country is actively preparing, putting both the army and public opinion on alert.
According to McMaster, deterrence remains the main tool to prevent a forceful scenario. The U.S. already allocates more than $1.6 trillion for defense, but the general says this amount will not be enough if the conflict moves into an active phase. He estimates that early investment in security would be much cheaper than responding to an escalation that is already developing.
“China today acts aggressively not only in economics or diplomacy, but also in the military sphere,” he emphasized.
The Role of Public Mobilization and Global Partnerships
What is particularly troubling is that the country’s authorities are actively preparing their population for a possible confrontation. Xi’s public statements are becoming more and more decisive, which, according to the expert, requires close attention from the U.S. and its allies.
McMaster stressed that strengthening their positions is important, as is encouraging partners around the world to invest in strengthening their defense forces. Such a step will help create an additional deterrent effect and preserve stability in the region.
At the same time, he said, the West should avoid mistakes made in other conflicts. The general urged not to repeat the scenario that led to the crisis in Eastern Europe.
The Taiwan Strait Remains a Geopolitical Flashpoint
It should be noted that this is not the first warning of experts about a possible escalation in the Taiwan Strait. As early as late last year, the media reported that Beijing told its armed forces to focus on preparing for possible active measures. 
“Concentrate all efforts on readiness for combat missions and enhance the ability to win,” Western publications quoted Xi Jinping’s address to the military as saying.
Tensions escalated after Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, visited Taiwan. Beijing’s sharp reaction was accompanied by a series of loud statements and large-scale military exercises off the island’s coast.
No matter how the situation develops, one thing is clear: Taiwan remains at the center of global politics, and the level of preparation of the region’s countries for possible challenges will play a key role in the future.