> The west can't do anything to stop China from incorporating Taiwan.

Who knows, I certainly don't. Except, I believe that Taiwan is much more important to the rest of the World than Ukraine, (no disrespect intended towards Ukraine). Also, Taiwan has been preparing for this longer and not sure but it seems they have better equipped and prepared military. Then there's the matter of about 100 miles of Taiwan Strait between them..

I'm not an expert on Chinese politics either, but I've read analyzes written by people who are and their opinion is that which I stated in the parent.

Stupid question here but why will it take China years to prepare? Taiwan is a relatively small Island, surely China is more than capable already?

Because it's a lot more difficult to invade an island country.

Probably because if they're not ready, the United States may take military action or economic retailion. Probably they're playing it extra safe and would rather not put their bigger long term goals at any unnecessary risk.

I think this is correct.

China is very happy with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But they will not subordinate their long-term strategy on Taiwan to Russian goals; Xi will stick to "slowly slowly catchee monkey". He is not a military opportunist, as Putin has shown himself to be.