Former Micronesian President David Panuelo: How the CCP Targeted My Nation

In a recent episode of “American Thought Leaders,” host Jan Jekielek meets with David Panuelo, the former president of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). During his time in office (2019–2023), President Panuelo wrote a number of letters to other leaders in the region to raise awareness about China’s belligerent tactics. This part of the Pacific and its islands are part of the “Second Island Chain” of defense in America’s military strategy and are crucial to the deterrence of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Jan Jekielek: I’ve been watching what you’ve been doing in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), where you were the president, standing up to communist China, and I’ve been reading several letters you wrote. At the beginning, you’re extremely cordial in this Pacific Islander way that we cherish. By the end, you’re very direct about the egregious behavior on the part of the Chinese regime. Tell me how this happened....