US CIA Director: "China Shocked by Ukraine's Strong Resistance"

China and Taiwan Military Integration Could Occur, Taiwan Paying Close Attention

[Asia Economy International Department Reporter] William Burns, Director of the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), stated on the 7th (local time) that China is closely watching the Ukraine situation in relation to the Taiwan issue.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

Director Burns attended a Financial Times-hosted conference held in Washington DC on the same day and conveyed that China was shocked by Ukraine's strong resistance against Russia's invasion and the harsh economic costs Russia is bearing.

Burns said, "I believe the Chinese leadership is observing all of this very carefully in terms of the potential costs that could arise if they attempt to unify Taiwan by force." However, he drew a line by saying that Chinese President Xi Jinping will not abandon his long-term plan to take control of Taiwan.

He added, "I do not think President Xi's determination to bring Taiwan under control will weaken even for a moment," and explained, "However, this will affect their calculations on when and how they will carry out such an action."

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the United States and other Western countries have strongly pressured China to join sanctions against Russia. China has maintained a cautious stance, keeping distance from both sides. Just before the Ukraine crisis, China and Russia declared an unlimited strategic partnership, including in energy and security sectors.

However, Director Burns pointed out that the brutal Russian invasion has significantly damaged international trust, affecting the relationship between the two countries. He said, "The bitter experiences over the past 10 to 11 weeks since Russia's invasion of Ukraine seem to have imposed limits on their practical friendly relations."

Meanwhile, regarding the possibility of Russia using tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine, Burns stated that he has seen no concrete signs. He said, "At this point, I have seen no substantial evidence that Russia is planning to deploy tactical nuclear weapons or considering their potential use," but added, "Considering the threats from the Russian leadership, this possibility cannot be taken lightly." Burns also said, "It seems that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot believe that he could be defeated," and "He still believes that intensifying the offensive will lead to progress."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.