Overview

• President Lai warned that China is flying military aircraft and sailing vessels near Taiwan in high-intensity operations while using gray-zone and cognitive tactics.
• He said these actions threaten Taiwan’s democracy and pose a broader challenge to democratic nations.
• Lai highlighted steps taken over the past year, including higher defense spending and improved salaries and benefits for servicemembers.
• He thanked troops guarding Taiwan against frequent incursions and praised their role in safeguarding the nation’s security and development.
• Beijing held a large parade to mark the end of World War II, with Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un in attendance, as Xi Jinping promoted China as unstoppable and committed to peaceful development.