Taiwan has called on the United States to continue arms supplies after U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he has not yet made a decision regarding a new arms sale package to the island. This was reported by Reuters, according to UNN.
Details
Following a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing, Trump stated that he has not yet decided whether to approve a major new arms package for Taiwan.
Trump tells Taiwan not to count on unconditional US protection15.05.26, 23:30
In response, Karen Kuo, spokesperson for Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, emphasized that U.S. military support is based on the American Taiwan Relations Act and serves as an element of deterrence against threats in the region.
"Military sales between Taiwan and the U.S. are not only a reflection of U.S. security commitments to Taiwan under the Taiwan Relations Act, but also serve as a mutual deterrent to regional threats," she stated.
Taipei also emphasized that China remains the "sole destabilizing factor" in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait.
Reuters notes that in December, the Trump administration already approved a record $11 billion arms sale package to Taiwan. Another package worth approximately $14 billion is awaiting a final decision from the U.S. President.
US approves largest ever $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan18.12.25, 09:37
At the same time, Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi stated that the authorities continue contacts with Washington to understand the position of the American side.
Trump also told reporters that before making a decision, he wants to talk "to the person who runs Taiwan."
China, which considers Taiwan its territory, regularly opposes American arms supplies to the island and is increasing military activity near Taiwan. Taipei, in turn, reiterated that Taiwan is a "sovereign and independent democratic state."