Location: Taipei, Taiwan
Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, highlighted the importance of arms purchases from the United States as a crucial deterrent against regional conflict and instability. This statement followed President Donald Trump’s remarks questioning the continued U.S. support of Taiwan after his visit to China.
President Lai stated that U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and their security cooperation not only align with legal requirements but also serve as a catalyst for regional peace and stability. He expressed gratitude for President Trump’s ongoing support for peace across the Taiwan Strait, acknowledging the increase in the scale and quantity of arms sales to Taiwan.
Recently, Trump raised doubts about his willingness to continue arms sales to Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, stating any forceful takeover is possible. While the U.S. does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country, Washington remains its strongest supporter and arms supplier. U.S. laws mandate that Taiwan receive defense support, viewing any threat to the island with utmost concern.
Trump rattles Taiwan with ‘bargaining chip’ comment
In December, Trump approved a record-breaking $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, including missiles, drones, artillery systems, and military software. However, during a Fox News interview, Trump mentioned withholding approval for a new $14 billion arms package, indicating dependency on China. It’s a very good negotiating chip for us frankly,
Trump stated.
These comments caused unrest in Taiwan, prompting reassurances from the government that U.S. policy towards Taiwan remains unchanged. President Lai affirmed Taiwan’s resolve not to provoke conflicts nor relinquish national sovereignty under pressure, identifying China as a destabilizing force.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson supported Lai’s statement, declaring that China cannot just seize land and emphasized Congress’s determination to stand firm. In contrast, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer discussed the ongoing considerations regarding the arms sales, noting previous pauses by past presidents. Greer emphasized that national security decisions prioritize American security needs.
During recent discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Trump, China identified Taiwan as the most significant issue in China-U.S. relations. Xi warned of potential clashes if the Taiwan issue was mishandled. China and Taiwan have operated independently since 1949, post the Communist Party’s rise to power in Beijing and the Nationalist Party’s relocation to Taiwan.
Associated Press writer Didi Tang in Washington contributed to this report.
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