Taiwan VP Defies China's Criticism and Threats During US Stopover En Route to Paraguay

Taiwan's vice president William Lai visited the US briefly en route to Paraguay, drawing condemnation from China which labeled him a separatist troublemaker.
Lai asserted Taiwan's democracy and stated the island would not back down to authoritarian threats, while China warned it would take action to protect its sovereignty.
Tensions have escalated between China and Taiwan, with increased military intimidation by China, as Lai is a front-runner in Taiwan's upcoming presidential election.
Taiwan expects potential military drills or shows of force by China near the island in response to Lai's US visit.
Lai aims to highlight Taiwan's sovereignty, while maintaining a moderate approach to cross-strait relations and a willingness for dialogue with China.