China delays Taiwan invasion for several reasons, US officials say

Despite the fact that Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered his military to prepare for a possible forcible takeover of the island in 2027, this is unlikely to happen.

According to US officials, several factors are affecting Beijing's plans. One of the key factors is a delay in reaching the necessary level of military readiness due to the Communist Party's anti-corruption campaign.

Another important reason is China's intention to first wait for the results of Taiwan's presidential election in 2028.

The media learned that Beijing expects that after the election, a political force more favorable to China establishing control over Taiwan could come to power on the island.

In the United States, officials believe that the Democratic Progressive Party retaining power and securing a fourth consecutive term could push Beijing to consider a military scenario in 2028 or later.

The re-election of Taiwan's incumbent President Lai Ching-te could become an additional factor of tension.

"If that happens, I think 2028 becomes pretty sporty," one US official told reporters.

The Chinese leader's decision could also be influenced by the US presidential election, which will take place in 2028. Insiders suggested that Xi Jinping may want to wait for the results.

There is no consensus among US officials on how significant this factor is for Beijing.

At present, US authorities have concluded that China has closely analyzed the experience of the wars in Ukraine and Iran. Beijing will likely decide to act as quickly as possible if a war begins in order to avoid prolonged hostilities.

Earlier, RBC-Ukraine reported that Chinese authorities had revealed their own plan for ending the Russian-Ukrainian war.

China unexpectedly changed its mobilization law for the first time in 16 years.