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yesterday

Taiwan Commemorates VE Day, Citing Global Risks from Authoritarian Expansion

President Lai Ching-te warns democracies against appeasement while Xi Jinping asserts China's reunification claims during Russia visit.

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te delivers a speech at the 80th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony of Victory in Europe at Taipei Guest House, in Taipei, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Johnson Lai)
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te delivers a speech on the anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe in Taipei, Taiwan May 8, 2025. REUTERS/Ann Wang
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, right, shakes hands with representatives from European trade offices after delivering a speech at the 80th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony of Victory in Europe at Taipei Guest House, in Taipei, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Johnson Lai)
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te delivers a speech on anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe in Taipei, Taiwan May 8, 2025. REUTERS/Ann Wang

Overview

  • Taiwan held its first-ever Victory in Europe Day commemoration, with President Lai drawing parallels between World War II appeasement and modern authoritarian threats.
  • Lai highlighted sabotage of undersea cables, election interference, and disinformation campaigns as tools of a 'new authoritarian bloc' targeting democracies.
  • China has ramped up military pressure on Taiwan, including war games, while asserting sovereignty claims over the island.
  • Xi Jinping, visiting Russia for Victory Day celebrations, reaffirmed in a public statement that Taiwan belongs to China and reunification is inevitable.
  • Taiwan continues its diplomatic outreach, with former President Tsai visiting Europe and Foreign Minister Lin engaging with U.S. officials to strengthen ties with democratic allies.