How Pelosi could visit Taiwan without causing a foreign policy storm

The fact is that a visit by Pelosi now would give Xi the opportunity to bolster his credentials by leading the country in nationalist fervor amid a confrontation with the US.

The dilemma is clear: If Pelosi backs down, allowing China’s threats to prevail, it could embolden Beijing — making the US look weak and Taiwan look vulnerable. If she doesn’t, there’s a risk of confrontation. China has been increasingly willing to stake its claims through military means in recent years.

Pelosi herself has suggested the Pentagon is worried the Chinese could attack her plane. What would happen if they attempt to interfere with her flight?…

There’s no perfect solution to this dilemma. The closest to one would be an announcement that Pelosi will definitely go to Taiwan, but will do it later, perhaps next year, when the November party Congress has passed; when Xi has less to prove; when a visit by a House leader can reassure the people of Taiwan that the US values, respects and will help the defend their democracy, and can say it in person, without lending a hand to Xi.