TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei City Councilor Miao Po-ya (苗博雅) sparked controversy Monday (Dec. 8) after discussing modern warfare's impact on civilian life during a livestream. Miao used the Russia-Ukraine war as an example, explaining that most people continue their daily routines while soldiers fight. Ukrainian officials informed Miao that areas not occupied by Russia must maintain daily routines despite severe damage in eastern Ukraine.
Some netizens criticized Miao for allegedly glorifying war and accused the councilor of encouraging others to fight in potential conflicts. Miao countered these accusations, asserting critics had misinterpreted her remarks about civilian life continuing during warfare. Miao emphasized that without a foreign passport, she would be among the first captured if China, the People's Republic of China, attacked Taiwan.
Miao compared Taiwan's situation to Israel's, noting Israel's smaller size and lack of natural barriers against threats. Miao stated that non-combat zones must sustain basic daily life during conflicts, similar to what occurred in Taiwan during the 1958 Second Taiwan Strait Crisis. Legislator Chen Yu-jen (陳玉珍) highlighted Kinmen's, a Taiwan-controlled island group, strategic disadvantage due to its proximity to China, noting modern missiles can strike across seas.
Defense Ministry spokesman Chiao Fu-chun (喬福駿) emphasized the importance of societal resilience in defense, stating that maintaining basic civilian operations is crucial during conflicts. Even allies in the Lai administration, Taiwan's government, expressed reservations about Miao's stance on working during wartime scenarios. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about civilian preparedness and responsibilities for potential conflict with China. ◼