China has criticized U.S. lawmakers for visiting Taiwan, labeling it as interference. This development coincides with Chinese President Xi Jinping's approach towards Taiwan, drawing parallels to Russian President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine. Putin's recent justification of the conflict in Ukraine, citing historical grievances and nationalism, mirrors Xi's narrative regarding Taiwan. Both leaders assert claims over territories based on historical entitlement and national rejuvenation.
While polls in Taiwan indicate a majority identifying as Taiwanese rather than Chinese, Xi Jinping maintains that people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share a Chinese identity. To reinforce these claims, China is significantly expanding its military capabilities, reminiscent of pre-World War II levels of military buildup.
