Cross-Strait Security: President Lai Ching-te marked the 68th anniversary of the 823 artillery bombardment in Kinmen, calling “peace through strength” and urging cross-party support for a record 2027 defense budget as China’s ambitions never waver. Defense Budget Push: The DPP-backed plan would lift 2027 defense spending to NT$1.1225 trillion (about 3.93% of GDP), with critics warning it squeezes resources for livelihoods. Military Posture Analysis: Analysts say Beijing is unlikely to launch a near-term attack, but is still stepping up coercion and pressure as the “window” narrows. Supply-Chain Pressure: Taiwan’s chip and aerospace/optics firms face germanium and quartz export delays from China, creating production bottlenecks and raising fears of weaponized trade. Southern Rain Disaster: Heavy rain continues to batter southern Taiwan, prompting closures of offices and schools in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung and triggering flooding and landslide alerts. Local Accountability: Tainan plans to help fire/explosion victims from an illegal waste storage site pursue compensation via a collective lawsuit after the suspected company vanished from its registered address. Sports—Taiwan on the Global Stage: Taiwan won two bronze medals at the World Badminton Championships, with Chou Tien-chen and the men’s doubles duo Lee Jhe-huei/Yang Po-hsuan taking third. Culture & Community: The Washington Nationals will host a second Taiwanese Heritage Day, featuring Taiwan-born NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren throwing the ceremonial first pitch.