Kathrine Frich
According to insiders, the upcoming packages aim to outpace his previous total of $18.3 billion in defense deals.
According to insiders, the upcoming packages aim to outpace his previous total of $18.3 billion in defense deals.
Trump Plans Record Arms Sales to Taiwan
Donald Trump is reportedly gearing up for a massive ramp-up in arms sales to Taiwan, even larger than during his first term.
If approved, this move could pour fuel on the already smoldering tensions between the U.S. and China.
A New Wave of Weapons Headed for Taipei
Two U.S. officials told Reuters that Trump’s camp wants to fast-track weapons approvals for Taiwan. The goal is tougher deterrence against Beijing.
This effort reportedly includes behind-the-scenes pressure on Taiwan’s opposition parties to back higher military spending, targeting 3% of the island’s GDP.
Beijing Already Fuming
The Chinese government has responded with outrage.
Beijing continues to insist Taiwan is “inseparable Chinese territory” and has repeatedly warned the U.S. to back off.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman demanded that Washington stop “creating new factors” for conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
Trump: Taiwan Should Pay Its Own Way
Despite the defense buildup, Trump has raised eyebrows in Taipei. During his campaign, he questioned U.S. support, saying Taiwan should pay for its own protection.
He even accused the island of stealing America’s semiconductor business, a key industry that Taiwan dominates globally.
Fear in Taipei: Is Trump Reliable or Reckless?
Many in Taiwan are torn. While the U.S. is their top arms supplier and strategic ally, Trump’s unpredictability has raised serious doubts.
Unlike Biden, who approved just $8.4 billion in arms deals during his term, Trump is seen as more aggressive, but not necessarily more dependable.
China Vows “Reunification”, By Force If Needed
Beijing has made no secret of its ambitions. President Xi Jinping has openly said China will reunify with Taiwan, by force if necessary.
Taiwan’s government has flatly rejected these claims, insisting that only its people can decide their future.
U.S. and Taiwan Tighten Security Ties Behind the Scenes
Despite no formal diplomatic ties, Washington and Taipei remain close.
Taiwanese officials confirmed they’re working closely with U.S. counterparts to prepare an arms procurement package, pending domestic approval of increased defense funding.
“Democracy Must Stand Together”: Taiwan Doubles Down
Taiwan’s presidential office says it’s all about self-defense and deterrence, not provocation.
“We will deepen cooperation with the U.S. while defending our democracy,” said Presidential Office spokesman Wen Lii. Defense Minister Wellington Koo emphasized the need for “solidarity among democratic allies.”
China’s Red Line: U.S. Arms Deals & Official Visits
Beijing has long bristled at Taiwanese visits to the U.S. or any military cooperation, calling them diplomatic violations.
Every arms shipment and high-level meeting has triggered angry rebukes from the Chinese Communist Party, further heightening risks of conflict.