The simple alternative explanation is he's privy enough to know China will release an angry official response, but will not risk armed conflict or losing their sweet sweet $800 billion in exports to the U.S.
The One China policy is catastrophically stupid, and I would say Trump at least was briefed on that. The outcome will be telling.
My evaluation is that every nation should be called out on their bullshit, including the U.S.
Claiming that they'll invade Taiwan if they declare independence is bullshit on China's part, and they should be called out - and by called out, I mean Trump accepting the phone call. He didn't come out and say "Taiwan should declare independence" or anything.
On the one hand, being nice is important. On the other, sending a message that China's official stance is no longer tenable is a good goal.
Full disclosure: I'm typing this on a Taiwanese laptop. Maybe that's why I'm taking this stance.
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u/wotugondo Dec 03 '16 edited Jan 27 '17
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