Part 8/10:
The current geopolitical landscape positions a North Korea emboldened by its preparations and external alliances, notably with Russia and a possibly aggressive alignment with China. The implications of any military confrontation potentially extend beyond the Korean Peninsula, as a China committed to reclaiming Taiwan may provoke a multifront conflict involving both Taiwan and the Korean Peninsula in the not-so-distant future.
The Taiwan Context and Risks of Conflict
With ongoing tensions in Taiwan, there are increasing fears that a Chinese invasion could distract American military efforts, leaving South Korea vulnerable. If North Korea calculates that the attention of U.S. forces is diverted, it may view this as an opportunity to explore aggressive actions against the South.