15. May 2026
Taiwan Responds After Trump Raises Concerns About Backing U.S. Arms Sales
TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan sought Friday to reassure both domestic and international audiences after former President Donald Trump questioned whether the United States should continue supporting arms sales to the self-governing island, comments that reignited debate over Washington’s commitment to Taiwan’s defense amid rising tensions with China.
Speaking during a campaign-related interview earlier this week, Trump said he had “hesitation” about continued U.S. military support and arms transfers to Taiwan, arguing the island should contribute more financially for its own defense and questioning the long-term costs to American taxpayers.
Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry responded cautiously, emphasizing the importance of the island’s security partnership with Washington while avoiding direct criticism of Trump, the Republican presidential nominee.
“Taiwan and the United States share close security and economic ties built on mutual interests and regional stability,” ministry spokesperson Jeff Liu said at a briefing in Taipei. “Taiwan will continue strengthening its self-defense capabilities and deepening cooperation with democratic partners.”
The comments drew significant attention in Taiwan, where public concern over China’s military pressure has intensified in recent years. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has vowed to bring the island under its control, by force if necessary. China has increased military drills and aircraft incursions near Taiwan since the election of President Lai Ching-te earlier this year.
The United States does not formally recognize Taiwan as an independent country but is legally obligated under the Taiwan Relations Act to provide the island with defensive weapons. Washington has approved billions of dollars in arms sales to Taiwan over the past decade, including advanced missile systems, fighter jet upgrades and naval equipment.
Taiwanese officials stressed Friday that bipartisan support for Taiwan remains strong in the U.S. Congress despite shifting rhetoric during the American presidential campaign.
“We have confidence that Taiwan-U.S. relations will remain stable regardless of political changes,” said Deputy Defense Minister Po Horng-huei. “Taiwan is committed to investing seriously in its own national defense.”
Trump has previously argued that Taiwan should pay the United States for protection, comparing the relationship to an insurance arrangement. Similar comments last year rattled markets and raised concerns among security analysts about how a second Trump administration might approach East Asia.
The Biden administration declined to comment directly on Trump’s remarks but reiterated its longstanding policy toward Taiwan. White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said the United States remains committed to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
China’s government criticized continued U.S. military support for Taiwan following the controversy. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing “firmly opposes any military ties between the United States and Taiwan” and urged Washington to stop arms sales to the island.
Analysts said Taiwan’s measured response reflects a desire to avoid becoming entangled in U.S. election politics while maintaining support from both major American parties.
“Taipei understands that public disputes with U.S. political leaders can create long-term diplomatic complications,” said Wen-Ti Sung, a Taiwan-based political analyst. “Their strategy is to stay calm and emphasize continuity.”
Taiwan has steadily increased defense spending in recent years, extending mandatory military service and accelerating procurement of asymmetric weapons designed to counter a potential Chinese invasion or blockade.
Despite political uncertainty in Washington, many Taiwanese officials and security experts believe U.S. strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific would continue to drive support for Taiwan regardless of who occupies the White House next year.