The 2016 U.S. Presidential election is in the final months. The debates are monopolized by foreign policy. China's aggressive Fifth Generation leadership, extraordinary military build-up, cyber attacks on government systems and increasing threats toward Taiwan have caused the U.S. and allies to believe something big was about to happen. 


China stokes an already hot fire by announcing a full scale military exercise. Intelligence reports state the operation, Operation Red Kindling, isn't an exercise. China has been mobilzing assets for months and it's believed that they are prepared to issue an ultimatum for Taiwan to join the Republic of China peacefully or by force. If China takes Taiwan, they will secure the one major land mass between the East and South China Seas. Moreover, it would be a statement to the world that China is the premier superpower - economically and militarily.

 
Once Operation Red Kindling begins, the United States is forced to choose whether to honor their commitment to protect an ally and potentially go to war with China, or allow China to potentially attack Taiwan, gain military advantage in the sea and allow the U.S. to be viewed as weak or fearful of China.


The debate about U.S. involvement provokes clear warnings from China that they will retaliate against anyone if there is any "meddling." The intelligence community has made it clear that China possesses the technology and the will to take on the U.S. and they fully intend on showing their capabilities by mercilessly attacking Taiwan if they don't capitulate. Further, Russia is sending strong signals they believe China has the right to conduct exercises and that Taiwan is part of China, so the U.S. shouldn't be there.


The President and his National Security Council are weighing the options, but it appears to be a lose-lose situation. Without finding a way to restrain China, World War III was imminent. Someone needed to find China's kryptonite, and fast!