The escalation of the confrontation between China and the United States in the Asia-Pacific region could bring the two major world powers to the brink of war. And it won’t be the kind of conflict the United States is used to. This view was expressed by New York Times columnist Ross Babbage.
Right now, the danger of the conflict over Taiwan escalating into a full-fledged war is higher than at any time since World War II. It may start after the Chinese army hits the rebel island. At the same time, Beijing has 1,350 ballistic and cruise missiles with which it can attack American allies in Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.
Along with this, China is able to use other means to defend its interests, including cyber warfare and a large-scale propaganda campaign. In this case, the United States will feel all the hardships of a military confrontation with a great power.
Moreover, Beijing can break many economic, technological and financial chains that bind it to Washington. The United States, in particular, will lose high-quality, low-cost Taiwanese semiconductors, as well as a large amount of Chinese resources and manufactures.
Creating a stronger deterrence policy by removing weak points is the best way to prevent war. But it takes time. Until then, it is important that Washington avoids provocations and maintains a courteous dialogue with Beijing.
Babbage noted.
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