Do those in power not recognize their responsibility for their actions?
Apparently some do not. Or, more damning, perhaps they do but don’t care.
When those in power (as, for instance, the #2 in line to the presidency of the US) take an action which not only exhibits a public lack of respect for another nation but contradicts the officially announced US policy regarding Taiwan (which is in agreement with China’s ‘One China’ policy)—then that is a reckless abuse of power. It either offensively disregards the potential consequences, or it is an intentional act to provoke conflict.
China is a nation—Taiwan has never declared its independance from China, and is therefore not a nation. However much we may agree with the Taiwanese on issues, we have no business treating them as an independent nation, selling them arms, or otherwise supporting any position they take in regard to China.
The US does not practice diplomacy. It practices arrogant defiance toward the legitimate concerns of other nations. It also has broken promises to other nations (the advance of NATO toward Russia’s border for instance). In disregarding it’s promises the US practices the policy of “might makes right” and “we’ll do as we please when it suits us”.
These actions of a bully can fully expect the use of force in retaliation. And that, perhaps, is their intention.
I wouldn’t put it past the neocons in our State Department to be encouraging Pelosi’s participation—especially since this Issue will turn the attention away from their plans in Ukraine which have not achieved the desired effect.
It is important in this situation that the furor unleashed by the actions of a reckless politician not incite the crowd of onlookers. Whatever the fate of the combatants….let the violence end there. The perpetrator deserves whatever forceful reply they receive.
Others will suffer, regardless. The bully deserves a bloody nose. The insulted will hopefully select a punishment that is proportional to the insult…but it is seldom the case. The onlookers will need to bare the show without getting involved in the violence.
I never knew Taiwan wasn't an independent nation. I've always thought of it as one. Great point on that.