Seeing red: fury as strategy in China's Taiwan-related diplomacy

China’s diplomatic responses to foreign statements on Taiwan often feature unusually forceful language; frequently interpreted as nationalist posturing or “wolf warrior” diplomacy. This article argues that such rhetoric is better understood as a strategic discursive practice. Drawing on the concept of huayuquan (discourse power), it examines how Chinese diplomats frame Taiwan as an issue governed by the norms of the post-war international order, particularly the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, by reacting strongly to perceived linguistic deviations, Beijing attempts to police the boundaries of acceptable international discourse on Taiwan. The article therefore reframes emotional diplomatic rhetoric as a calculated strategy to shape global narratives and reinforce China’s preferred interpretation of the issue.