Well that's the problem, you see going into China is simply madness. Simply put there are too many Chinese and let's be honest, many of them are very happy with how the Chinese government's economic policies. Our one true advantage is in sea power. The Chinese do not have the amphibious units necessary in order to make a significant assualt on the ROC. Having said that, the problems of infiltrators becomes a real concern.
Then we consider North Korea, yes he's a mad-man, but you can be assured that any open conflict between the US and the PRC will lead to an invasion of South Korea. The question then becomes under what circumstances will Pyongyang use the tactical nukes they posess.
Some of you are correct in some aspects, Europe would not get involved unless it was an all out-war, which I'm sure we all pray will never again happen.
A recent column was posted on a blog site called AtlasWide and it gave an interesting analysis of the snowballing China-Taiwan situation and how the world MIGHT line up.
It looks something like this.
Australia, the U.S., Japan and Taiwan are literally locked together by not only past agreements but more recent ones as well. We have recently "put muscle" into our relations with Japan after a 6 point talk with ambassadors of both parties (March 14).
Russia is essentially locked in with China now. Like this posting said (but it's not the first time it's been said), Russia either chooses the possibility of a future power with China, provided they can assume the position economically, loosing everything with the U.S. and our closer allies, OR they stay neutral. Well the latter is impossible, 3 months ago they dug themselves a hole with BRICs and have been taken up with China ever since. They promised to perform joint military maneuvers last year. Russia would never get involved in a conflict if it had no special interest for them. Their possible power with China MUST outweigh the cost of a war with the United States or else they wouldn't even attempt it; they are betting on a win.
North Korea might have to get involved if China asks for it, so don't count that out. In the case that NK does put a foot in, things will escalate back home with fear of a nuclear strike.
This isn't all of it but you can read the rest at atlaswide.blogspot.com
"What do you guys think would happen if China attacked Taiwan? If we repelled an attack do you think we would go all the way and topple the communist regime? What do you guys think North Korea and Russia will do if war breaks out with China?"
I believe we will see North Korea attack South Korea within 6 months of China attacking Taiwan. Then I would say that Russia will attack a weak, socialite Europe. As one poster mentions, the Chinese can bankrupt us instantly if they want to, but not yet - they are patient and will build their military up for at least another 5-7 years in my opinion before they do this. Then, as we sit trying to keep things intact domestically, they will make their move. Right now we outgun their navy in all areas but they are quickly catching up. I also think they want the prestige of the Olympics in 2008 kind of like Hitler in pre-WWII.
Yes. But a note: Currently Australia is on China's side.