Part 10/16:
Despite rhetoric predicting a catch-all 'year of conflict,' credible analysis suggests that China recognizes the potential for self-destruction if it pushes too hard militarily. The Chinese military, although significant in size, is fundamentally untested in modern peer-to-peer conflict, and Xi Jinping has purged many experienced officers, raising questions about readiness. An invasion today could be economically devastating, and the Chinese leadership is acutely aware of this.