Across Taiwan, a growing number of civilians—dubbed “weekend warriors”—are dedicating their free time to military-style training in anticipation of a potential Chinese invasion. Fueled by heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait and Beijing’s increasingly aggressive rhetoric, these ordinary citizens are learning combat skills, survival tactics, and first aid to prepare for a worst-case scenario.
Volunteer defense organizations have seen a surge in enrollment, with participants ranging from office workers to retirees. Many trainees cite a sense of patriotic duty and the desire to protect their families and communities. “We can’t just wait for help from abroad,” said one participant. “If something happens, we must be ready to defend ourselves.”
Taiwan’s government has supported expanded training programs and increased defense spending, while also deepening ties with the U.S. and other allies. However, the civilian preparedness movement reflects a growing belief among citizens that they must take matters into their own hands.
Military experts note that this grassroots mobilization could serve as a deterrent, signaling to Beijing that any attempt at invasion would face fierce resistance. For Taiwan’s “weekend warriors,” the drills are more than preparation—they are a declaration of resilience in the face of mounting geopolitical uncertainty.
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