Trump Weighs Blocking $14 Billion Taiwan Arms Sale at Beijing's Request
Updated
Updated · Foreign Policy · Jun 11
Trump Weighs Blocking $14 Billion Taiwan Arms Sale at Beijing's Request
2 articles · Updated · Foreign Policy · Jun 11
Summary
$14 billion in congressionally authorized arms for Taiwan could be delayed after Donald Trump said in China he was considering withholding the package at Beijing’s request.
Trump framed the move as a rethink of outdated U.S. policy, saying Taiwan is far from the United States and portraying President Lai Ching-te as a pro-independence risk that could drag Washington into conflict.
Taipei would face both a military and political hit: it relies on U.S. weapons for deterrence, and any pause could undercut Lai’s push for higher defense spending while feeding Chinese claims that Washington is unreliable.
Asian allies are likely to read the signal beyond Taiwan, especially after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth avoided mentioning Taiwan at Shangri-La and the administration also wavered on U.S. force levels in Europe.
The broader implication is that U.S. partners in Asia may need a backup security plan built on faster rearmament, tighter regional coordination and deeper links with European defense partners.
If lifelong alliances become 10-year contracts, who benefits more in the strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing?
As Japan hedges with 'nuclear latency,' what new red lines are being drawn in Asia's security landscape?
While Europe unites for a 'Plan B,' can Asia's historical rivalries permit a similar pact to counter regional threats?
Delaying $14 Billion in Arms: Trump’s Taiwan Policy Shift and Its Impact on U.S. Credibility
Overview
President Trump’s administration delayed notifying Congress about a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, despite urgent calls from U.S. lawmakers and Taiwan’s readiness to purchase. This decision came just before Trump’s summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, reflecting Trump’s admiration for Xi and his focus on China’s power over Taiwan’s democratic status. The delay signals a shift in U.S. policy, using Taiwan’s security as a bargaining chip with China, and raises concerns about America’s commitment to its allies. This move has unsettled Taiwan and U.S. partners, highlighting the risks of prioritizing diplomatic leverage over longstanding security commitments.