Incoming KMT Chair Defends Putin's Election
Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) chair-elect Cheng Li-wun (鄭麗文) expressed her views on Taiwan's international relations and recent comments about Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview with Deutsche Welle (DW) on Friday.
Cheng Li-wun's Remarks on Putin
Cheng stated that after the Soviet Union's collapse, Russia quickly transitioned to democracy and has held many elections since. She emphasized,
"Putin was elected via a democratic vote. That's why I was surprised that he was being labeled a dictator."
She reaffirmed her belief that Putin is not a dictator but a leader chosen by democratic processes.
Expanding Taiwan's International Relations
When asked about Taiwan's diplomatic goals, Cheng said,
"We hope Taiwan can expand its international relations and make as many friends as possible."
Criticism of Taiwan’s Current Leadership
Discussing cross-strait relations, Cheng criticized President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), warning that their approach could
"very well turn Taiwan into a second Ukraine."
Response to War and Dictatorship Question
In response to DW reporter Tsou Tzung-han's (鄒宗翰) challenge that only a dictator can decide on the outbreak of war, Cheng reiterated her stance:
"Putin is not a dictator; he is a leader elected through democratic votes."
Summary
Cheng Li-wun emphasizes democratic legitimacy for Putin, advocates for Taiwan’s broader diplomatic engagement, and critiques current leadership’s policies on cross-strait relations.
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