[grey_whiskers]

That's it. China's invading. If Obama doesn't stop the Pacific Navy from responding, WW III begins in Asia, spreads to the Middle East and Europe, and then goes nuts with India and Russia both trying to make some moves against what they will see as a distracted China.

(Check my tagline before responding to this posting, please.)

[Gen.Blather]

You are right about at least one thing. Leaders tend to make decisions as though uninvolved players will not make a move of their own. A move by China against Taiwan might bring unexpected or anticipated responses from India, Russia, Japan, North Korea and Chinese dissidents and home grown terrorists.

I believe you are also right that the US under Obama would not interfere. This is probably a widely held opinion in China as well and, as such, places the world in a much more dangerous situation than if we steadfastly stood by Taiwan. We should be supplying Taiwan arms they could use to defend themselves, which would send a signal of intent. Currently the big purchase items have been tabled for so long an observer would say they will never be forthcoming. Therefore, the US will not back Taiwan.

[Mr. Jeeves]

China doesn’t have to invade. Too many Taiwanese politicians are already working on re-uniting (surrendering). It will happen by itself in the next 10-15 years, without a shot fired.