Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has embarked on a series of 10 speeches titled "Uniting the Country," asserting unequivocally that Taiwan is "of course" a country and challenging China's sovereignty claims as lacking historical evidence and legal proof. Lai emphasized Taiwan's independent status regardless of the name used to describe the nation, including the Republic of China or Taiwan. His speeches aim to rally Taiwan's 23 million residents against perceived threats from China and promote unity on the island. However, these remarks have drawn strong condemnation from the Chinese government, which accuses Lai of promoting separatism, spreading lies, and provoking cross-Strait confrontation. Chinese officials and state media have labeled his speeches as a "blatant separatist declaration" and a push for "Taiwan independence," warning that such rhetoric undermines peace and stability in the region. Critics within Taiwan also express concern that Lai's campaign may deepen political divisions domestically. Amid rising tensions, Paraguay, Taiwan's only remaining diplomatic ally in South America, has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan and announced plans to host President Lai in August. The visit is expected to include transit stops in the United States, a move likely to further irritate Beijing. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged Paraguay to choose relations with Beijing over Taipei ahead of the visit. Lai's ongoing speaking tour and diplomatic engagements highlight the escalating complexities in cross-Strait relations and the broader geopolitical contest involving Taiwan, China, and international actors.