China is preparing to spend significant new sums to expand its navy to counter what it sees as a challenge posed by President Trump.
Trump’s promise of an increase in military spending that will include a sizable number of new ships is “unnerving” Beijing, according to Reuters, as is his unpredictability with respect to Taiwan and the South and East China seas, leading China to respond with a naval buildup of its own.
“It’s opportunity in crisis,” a Beijing-based Asian diplomat said of China’s recent naval moves. “China fears Trump will turn on them eventually as he’s so unpredictable and it’s getting ready.”
In a break with protocol, Trump spoke with Taiwan’s leader soon after Election Day, though his administration eventually affirmed the “One China” policy that has guided U.S.-Sino relations since Jimmy Carter’s presidency.
