Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts from Nebraska has raised concerns about the threat posed by Communist China to the American way of life. On the 36th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre, Ricketts spoke with reporters about China's impact on global peace and stability, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Ricketts stated, "Dictator Xi Jinping has told his military to be ready to seize Taiwan by 2027," highlighting China's potential threat to regional peace. He emphasized that "Communist China is actively threatening our rules-based system that we’ve had in place for over 80 years."

The senator also discussed China's coercive actions in the Indo-Pacific and stressed America's role in maintaining relationships with its regional partners. According to Ricketts, "Countries throughout the region know that Communist China is an inconsistent trading partner and a bad neighbor." He added that these countries desire America's presence and support in strengthening their defense capabilities.

During a press call, Ricketts reflected on past events such as the Tiananmen Square Massacre, stating, "Communist China’s attacks on freedom are not only existential threats to America and the rest of the world but are a tragic reality for their own people." He noted that censorship continues within China regarding these events.

Ricketts participated in the Shangri-La Dialogue alongside Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth. This annual conference focuses on defense policy and national security in the Indo-Pacific. The senator highlighted how Chinese aggression threatens significant trade partners like Japan and South Korea, which could affect American economic interests.

The U.S.'s presence at this conference was substantial, with top officials such as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivering detailed speeches on Indo-Pacific issues. Ricketts remarked on America's commitment to remain engaged in this crucial region: “America is proud to be back in the Indo-Pacific... America and our interests are here to stay.”

Ricketts's efforts include legislative initiatives like the PORCUPINE Act and co-sponsoring of the COUNTER Act aimed at addressing military threats from China globally. These actions reflect ongoing concerns about China's influence and intentions regarding Taiwan.

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