National Security Adviser O’Brien Compares China Naval Build-Up to Germany Prior to World War I

Speaking on Oct. 7 at the University of Nevada, National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien said that China’s “massive” naval build-up probably not seen since Germany’s attempt to compete with the Britain’s Royal Navy prior to World War I, was creating a dangerous situation. He warned China that any attempt at invasion of Taiwan would not be easy since Taiwan’s beaches were 100 miles away. He said that Taiwan should spend more money in arming itself and make itself into a “porcupine. Lions generally don’t like to eat porcupines,” he quipped. He reiterated that the U.S. was required by law to provide Taiwan with any equipment it may need to defend itself.