Taiwanese divided on response to potential China invasion, WSJ interviews reveal

Taiwanese citizens hold a spectrum of views on how to respond to potential Chinese aggression, according to interviews conducted by The Wall Street Journal. The report featured five individuals from different generations and backgrounds, revealing a complex societal landscape shaped by China's ongoing military pressure.

Among those interviewed was Cony Hsieh, a 33-year-old reservist who served six years in the military. She stated unequivocally that she would fight if China attacked, emphasizing Taiwan's need to strengthen its own defenses and societal resilience rather than relying solely on the United States. Hsieh expressed greater concern about potential shifts in Taiwan's defense policy following the 2028 presidential election.

Dov Lin, 54, also affirmed his commitment to resist an invasion, drawing on his experience growing up during Taiwan's authoritarian period and its subsequent democratization. He advocates for maintaining the status quo and avoiding significant changes that could provoke Beijing.

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If China attacks Taiwan, and the military needs me to return to the front line, I will fight without question.

Conversely, 27-year-old artist Hsu Mei-chih, whose mother is from China, has developed a stronger Taiwanese identity through her engagement with Taiwan's democratic history. While she believes Taiwan and China should remain separate, she still wishes to visit family in Qingdao. Meanwhile, 63-year-old Ben Chen proposed a "Sino-Confederation" concept, seeking to preserve Taiwan's distinct flag, military, and diplomatic status while reducing cross-strait tensions, viewing war as an unacceptable option.

Eric Li, 25, noted that younger Taiwanese often express a desire to "hide" when discussing war. He values Taiwan's democratic elections and open society, hoping to maintain the current situation and reduce conflict risks through engagement and symbolic compromises with China. The interviews collectively illustrate that while some are prepared to defend Taiwan, others prioritize peace or compromise, reflecting a society grappling with its identity and security in the face of external threats.

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Everyone says they want to hide when they talk about war.