Taiwan's President Boosts Diplomatic Ties in Central America Despite China's Displeasure

Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is expected to meet with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week, in a carefully orchestrated move to stand up to Beijing's threats while avoiding triggering a war in the Pacific. McCarthy has established a reputation as a savvy electoral strategist and is moving to make his mark on foreign policy, with an eye on China. Beijing has warned of "counter measures" and "consequences" if Tsai meets with U.S. officials, in particular McCarthy, and could carry out military maneuvers around the island to intimidate and scare the people of Taiwan.