Representative Scott Perry (R-Pa.) has emphasized the critical need for the United States to prepare for a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan by 2027, urging that this timeline should be treated as a credible threat.
The congressman’s warning aligns with recent statements from U.S. Strategic Command commander General Anthony J. Cotton, who highlighted how Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Taiwan objectives have influenced China’s military investments. These investments span land, sea, and air-based nuclear delivery systems, along with infrastructure supporting a significant expansion of nuclear capabilities.
Perry, who serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and has a background as a retired Army brigadier general, stressed that 2027 has consistently been Beijing’s target date for Taiwan. He advocated for incorporating this timeline into all strategic planning and decision-making processes.
As one of 28 lawmakers supporting a February resolution for normalized U.S.-Taiwan diplomatic relations, Perry emphasized the importance of strongly opposing China’s narrative and coercive tactics regarding Taiwan. He advocated for public recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty and diplomatic efforts.
The historical context dates back to 1949, when the Republic of China government retreated to Taiwan following their defeat by Communist forces in the Chinese Civil War. While the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has never governed Taiwan, it maintains its goal of
“unification” through either peaceful means or military action.
Recent developments have heightened tensions, particularly since President Lai Ching-te’s inauguration. The Chinese regime has intensified its rhetoric against “Taiwan separatists” and increased military activities in the Taiwan Strait, with near-daily presence of military or coast guard vessels.
Former CIA Director William Burns previously revealed that Xi had instructed the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to prepare for a Taiwan invasion by 2027. Lawrence Sellin, a retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel, noted that Beijing has employed a gradual approach through multiple small actions, though this strategy could shift.
Additional intelligence from Yuan Hongbing, a former Peking University law professor with connections to CCP leadership, indicates that party officials received recommendations to address the “Taiwan issue” by 2027. This timeline reportedly serves as a “political guarantee” for the CCP’s 21st National Congress scheduled for that year.
Recent developments within China’s military leadership have raised questions about internal power dynamics. The unexplained absence of General He Weidong, the second-ranked vice chairman of the CCP’s Central Military Commission, has sparked speculation about potential power struggles and their impact on Taiwan-related decisions.
Perry addressed these internal developments, stating that while any disruption to the CCP’s oppressive activities could be beneficial, the United States cannot passively wait for internal changes. He emphasized the need for proactive measures in preparing for potential conflict scenarios.
International relations in the region remain complex, with the United States maintaining its “One China” policy that acknowledges but doesn’t endorse Beijing’s position. Meanwhile, China continues to obstruct Taiwan’s participation in international organizations and pressure other nations to accept its sovereignty claims over the island.
The situation represents a critical challenge for U.S. foreign policy and military planning, requiring careful consideration of both diplomatic and strategic responses to China’s increasingly assertive stance toward Taiwan.