US and Japan fortify Ryukyu in Taiwan strategy response
The Kyodo agency reported, citing sources familiar with Japanese-American relations, that in response to increasing tensions around Taiwan, the United States plans to establish temporary bases on Japan's Ryukyu Islands and deploy missile units there.
The proposed actions form part of the first joint US-Japan strategy in the event of an unexpected situation involving Taiwan. The document is expected to be finalised in December this year.
American troops equipped with HIMARS missile systems will be stationed on the uninhabited islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago, extending from Kagoshima Prefecture through Okinawa to Taiwan.
Not only Taiwan. The Philippines enter the game
The Japanese Self-Defence Forces will provide logistical support to the US Marine Corps, supplying fuel and ammunition. Simultaneously, the US multi-domain forces plan to deploy long-range fire units in the Philippines.
In February last year, the US and the Philippines agreed to increase the number of bases available to the US military from five to nine. These facilities would be utilised if tensions around Taiwan escalate.
China claims that Taiwan is an "eternal" part of the People's Republic of China, even though it has never exercised control over it. Chinese leader Xi Jinping asserts that "unification of the homeland" is "inevitable" and describes it as essential for realising the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation" project. He does not dismiss the possibility of using military force.
Taiwan - a silent ally of Ukraine
Taiwan is under close observation by the US due to relations with China. An attack on Taiwan could currently have dire consequences. According to American Admiral Samuel Paparo, US ammunition supplies are significantly depleted due to ongoing support for Ukraine and Israel.
However, supporting Ukraine is necessary, believes former President of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen.
In her view, aiding Ukraine should be a priority for the United States. Moreover, for China, in practice, it could act as a kind of "deterrent."
Ukraine's victory will serve as the most effective deterrent against future aggression, Tsai stated.
Taiwan's authorities recently supported Ukraine by donating power generators and laptops. This type of aid is aimed at strengthening Ukraine's energy infrastructure amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
