Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te criticized authoritarian tendencies in global politics during a military parade in China attended by leaders like Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un. He underscored the irony of former Axis powers embracing democracy while China’s display raised concerns about its potential aggression towards Taiwan. Lai’s remarks reflect Taiwan’s vigilance against possible threats and highlight the importance of democratic values in contrast to authoritarian regimes. This commentary emphasizes Taiwan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty amid rising tensions in the region, reinforcing the need for a robust defense posture in the face of challenges posed by neighboring authoritarian states.