Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend its freedoms and democracy, blaming China for the tensions. Japan and Australia on Tuesday urged the two to talk, while the United States said it has been “conveying clear messages” after what it described as destabilizing activities by China. Taiwan calls China’s repeated nearby military activities “grey zone” warfare, designed to both wear out Taiwan’s forces by making them repeatedly scramble, and also to test Taiwan’s responses. Taiwan does not seek military confrontation, Tsai said, “but if its democracy and way of life are threatened, Taiwan will do whatever it takes to defend itself.”JAPAN, AUSTRALIA CONCERNThe United States, Taiwan’s main military supplier, has its “rock-solid” commitment to Taiwan. China has blamed the United States for the tensions due to its arms sales and support for the island.
