Taiwan's president used his National Day speech to stress peace over confrontation with China, and Washington signalled approval — a mildly reassuring sign for anyone worried about a Taiwan Strait flashpoint.

• Lai Ching-te said China keeps pressuring Taiwan with military moves and grey-zone tactics to change the status quo in the strait.
• He framed Taiwan as a stable, trustworthy force that does not seek dominance and knows the cost of conflict.
• Higher defence spending and a push for asymmetric weapons were cast as deterrence, not provocation.
• The State Department said it welcomes his commitment to keeping the peace in the strait.
• Taiwan still wants talks, but only on equal terms with its dignity intact.

Outlook: Expect Beijing to dismiss the speech and keep up military pressure, while Washington holds to its current line on the strait.