Retired U.S. Navy commander on military readiness

Kirk Lippold, a retired Navy commander, has urged the Biden administration to demonstrate power following China’s recent military drills near Taiwan, which were viewed as a display of strength.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu issued a stark warning that China’s military drills are becoming serious and coming very close to Taiwan. Any accident, Wu said, could spark an “uncontrollable war” if other countries try to intervene.

Lippold, who commanded the USS Cole, believes China is responding to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s recent meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He also expressed concerns that Russia, China, and Iran may be working in concert to spread the U.S. and its allies thin in the intelligence, military and diplomatic worlds.

Despite acknowledging U.S. determination in sending a Navy warship through the South China Sea, Lippold cautioned that the country is not equipped to engage in a war if it becomes necessary. He stated the U.S. is incapable of engaging in sustained conflicts and would only be able to perform quick and short strikes before retreating.

As a result, the U.S. military lacks the depth required to wage a full-scale war. But we don’t have the ability to do that sustained effort. And that’s what is concerning to the American people and our allies,” he said, noting that the military no longer has the capability to fight a “two-front major war.”

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Retired Navy SEAL Mike Sarraille believes that the Biden administration’s messaging may be to blame for the decline in military recruitment, which fell short by 25 percent in 2022.

“Why would you join a military that’s politicized? And every time one of our soldiers makes a very decisive decision that maybe results in collateral damage, their character is assassinated by the liberal media. Why would you want to join that organization?” Sarraille said.

Lippold, the Biden administration should fulfill the military agreements made with Taiwan as he thinks that it could serve as a signal to China. Lippold suggested that the US should provide Taiwan with the necessary equipment to protect their country instead of making empty promises. He emphasized the importance of taking action to discourage China from even thinking about attacking Taiwan.

The current situation is extremely delicate, and even the slightest mistake could lead to serious ramifications. While it’s crucial for the Biden administration to demonstrate strength and determination in response to China’s military drills close to Taiwan, it should do so prudently to avoid any unintended escalation of hostilities.