TAIWAN WEAPONS PACKAGE
What the midterms elections mean for US-China ties
A recent victory for Democrats in the US midterm elections may reshape relationships with China in several ways. Control of Congress allows them to limit President Donald Trump's tariffs on Chinese products, which may influence ongoing trade negotiations. Taiwan could become a critical issue, especially if Democrats push for arms sales to support the island. Beijing might perceive Trump’s weakened political status as an opportunity to apply pressure on him.
What's holding up Washington's $14 bn arms sale to Taiwan?
Taiwan has been waiting months for US President Donald Trump to approve a $14 billion sale of weapons and equipment, which the island democracy would use to fend off a potential Chinese attack. - Taiwan is developing a multi-layered air defence system, known as the T-Dome, that it hopes could counter a potential Chinese attack.
US Commission chair warns China Coast Guard patrols East of Taiwan are 'Highly Destabilising'
China has increased its Coast Guard patrols near Taiwan, which raises concerns about regional stability and sovereignty claims. Randall Schriver noted the patrols represent a form of legal and political warfare aimed at Taipei. Taiwanese officials view these activities as preparation for a possible maritime blockade by China. The United States continues to support Taiwan, despite pending arms package approvals related to these tensions.
Chinese patrols to Taiwan's east are 'destabilising', US Congress-appointed official says
US officials highlight the destabilizing nature of China's coast guard patrols near Taiwan's east coast. Randall Schriver notes that such actions extend China's claims and involve legal and information warfare. Joseph Wu asserts that China has no legitimate rights to these waters surrounding the island. Delays are expected in US arms sales to Taiwan as negotiations continue between the leaders of the US and China.
Taiwan bolsters defences against China as first batch of F-16V fighter jets to arrive
Taiwan is set to receive its first two F-16V fighter jets from a delayed US order for 66 aircraft, strengthening its air force amid rising Chinese military pressure. The $8 billion Lockheed Martin deal, approved in 2019, will expand Taiwan’s F-16 fleet beyond 200 jets. Delivery has faced software and other production-related delays, raising concerns over US arms commitments.
US sees Chinese invasion of Taiwan unlikely next year despite 2027 timeline, sources say
US officials believe a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan before 2028 is increasingly improbable despite Chinese President Xi Jinping's direction to his military to be ready for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027. The reasons include the delay military readiness, the Chinese Communist Party's anti-corruption campaign and the awaited Taiwan's 2028 elections. US officials say that China hopes to bring in a government more amenable to bringing the island under Chinese control.
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Washington responds after US ambassador says Trump asked Xi if China wanted to buy American weapons
David Perdue, the US Ambassador to China, made an unusual claim regarding arms sales during a recent interview. He stated that President Trump asked President Xi if he desired to buy American weapons. Following this statement, US officials clarified there are no plans to sell any weapons to China. The US position on Taiwan's independence remains unchanged amid rising tensions over arms sales.
Trump asked Xi if China wanted to buy US weapons, ambassador says
President Trump has been discussing the potential U.S. arms sale to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump has emphasized that arms sales are a normal activity for the U.S. and questioned Xi about his interest in purchasing them. The U.S. is obligated to help Taiwan defend itself, despite not recognizing it as a country. Concerns over delayed military aid and weapon orders to Taiwan have been raised by lawmakers.
There wasn’t much to Xi: A red carpet, a fragile truce and the search for US-China stability
During Xi Jinping's state visit to Washington, leaders announced modest tariff cuts and a new dialogue on AI safety. The ongoing US-Iran war significantly affects the strategic relationship between the two powers. A report highlights the US's dependence on Chinese rare earths for military needs amid supply challenges. Strategic stability efforts were explored but ultimately did not yield significant progress toward a lasting agreement.
Trump and Xi see tensions flare over AI, trade and Iran but still seek stability
Trump and Xi are set to meet in Washington as the US-China relationship remains marked by intense competition over AI, trade and technology. The leaders are expected to seek stability rather than a major breakthrough, with Iran, Taiwan and tariffs also on the agenda.
Why Taiwan remains a key issue in China-US ties | Explained
China's President Xi Jinping will urge US President Donald Trump to halt arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing views Taiwan as its territory and a core interest, rejecting outside interference. Taiwan, a democracy, rejects China's sovereignty claims and seeks global engagement. The United States officially acknowledges China's "One China" policy but aids Taiwan's defense. Past US engagements have led to significant Chinese military exercises around the island.
Taiwan kicks off annual military drills to counter a potential Chinese attack
Taiwan began annual military exercises simulating a Chinese invasion response. These drills test 24-hour defense capabilities and counter China's gray-zone tactics. Urban resilience drills will assess population response to internet disruptions during the exercises. The drills involve the largest team of reservists ever mobilized for active duty.
Taiwan's Lai says defending democracy is not a provocation against China
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te asserts that defending the island's security and freedom from Chinese Communist Party rule is not provocative. He seeks swift approval for a new US arms sale package. Lai emphasizes Taiwan's right to self-determination and calls for China to renounce force. Taiwan is bolstering its defense capabilities to ensure regional peace and stability.
Taiwan presses case for US arms after Trump says he's undecided on new sales
Taiwan's deputy foreign minister emphasized that U.S. arms sales are crucial for regional peace. This comes after President Trump expressed uncertainty about future weapons sales to the island. China continues its military pressure around Taiwan. Taiwan maintains its stance as a sovereign nation. The island's people alone decide its future.
Ahead of Trump-Xi summit, China warns on US arms sales to Taiwan
China strongly opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, urging Washington to honor commitments ahead of President Trump's Beijing summit. Beijing views Taiwan as its territory and a core interest, while the U.S. is legally bound to provide defensive means. Taiwan's reduced defense budget approval raises concerns about Beijing using it as leverage with Trump.
Taiwan's parliament approves $25 bn defence spending bill
Taiwan's parliament approved a $25 billion defence spending bill on Friday that opposition lawmakers say will be used for US weapons, following months of political wrangling. The Kuomintang (KMT), which favours closer ties with China, and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) announced on Friday they would be willing to raise their original spending proposal to a maximum NT$780 billion (nearly $25 billion) for US arms only.
New US weapons for Taiwan could be approved after Trump's China trip, sources say
A significant US arms deal for Taiwan, valued at 14 billion dollars, is nearing President Donald Trump's approval. This package includes advanced interceptor missiles. The announcement is expected after Trump's visit to China. This move signals continued US support for Taiwan amidst rising pressure from Beijing. Taiwan anticipates the delivery of crucial defense systems.
US-Taiwan relations are 'rock solid,' president Ching-te says after Trump-Xi call
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te asserts that ties with the United States remain strong. He confirmed that cooperation programs will continue without alteration. This statement follows a call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump concerning arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing views Taiwan as its territory. Lai emphasized that U.S. commitments to Taiwan are unchanged.
US announces massive package of arms sales to Taiwan valued at more than $10 billion, angering China
In a bold diplomatic move, the United States has unveiled an arms deal with Taiwan that surpasses ten billion dollars, encompassing advanced missiles, howitzers, and cutting-edge drones. In response, China's government has condemned the sale, labeling it a breach of established agreements and a destabilizing force in the region.
US approves $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, largest ever
America has approved a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. This includes HIMARS, howitzers, and drones. Taiwan aims for asymmetric warfare with this support. The sales aim to bolster Taiwan's self-defense capabilities. This move increases tensions with China. Taiwan plans significant additional defense spending.
US confirms sale of $700 million air defence missile system to Taiwan
On Monday, the Pentagon said the company was given a firm fixed-price contract for procurement of the NASAMS units, with work estimated to be completed in February 2031. "Fiscal 2026 foreign military sales (Taiwan) funds in the amount of $698,948,760 were obligated," it said in a statement.
Donald Trump could 'discard' Taiwan, if elected to the White House, claims China
China's government suggested that Donald Trump might discard Taiwan if he wins the U.S. presidential election, referencing his 'America first' stance. Trump has claimed Taiwan should pay for protection and accused it of stealing American semiconductor business. Taiwan's officials have chosen not to comment during the ongoing U.S. election campaign.
Taiwan 'must rely' on itself for defence against China: FM
Taiwan's foreign minister, Lin Chia-lung, emphasized the island's need for self-reliance in defense after US presidential candidate Donald Trump insisted Taipei should pay Washington for protection in a conflict with China. Lin highlighted China's growing military threat and Taiwan's increased defense budget, which has risen from 2% to 2.5% of GDP over eight years. Despite Trump's remarks casting doubt on US-Taiwan relations, Lin stressed the importance of demonstrating Taiwan's determination and capability to deter any potential aggression from China.
Taiwan happy with US aid package, China objects to arms sales
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen expresses gratitude for the U.S. Congress passing a substantial foreign aid package, including arms support for Taiwan, amid China's opposition. The bills, approved by both chambers, signal continued U.S. backing for Taiwan, sparking tensions with Beijing, which demands an end to arms sales.
Taiwan says it will discuss with US how to use new funding
The defence ministry expressed thanks to the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the package on Saturday, saying it demonstrated the "rock solid" U.S. support for Taiwan.
A look at what's in the $95 billion foreign aid package passed by the House
A look at what's in the $95 billion package passed by the House on Saturday that will provide military aid to Ukraine and Israel, replenish U.S. weapons systems and give humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. Senate passage is expected this coming week.
US awards contract worth 68.4 milliion US dollars to make jet fighter missiles for Taiwan
The US Department of Defense has awarded a $68.4 million contract to an American company for the production of 50 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) Air-to-Ground Missiles for Taiwan's F-16V fighter jets. The missiles, part of an arms sale package approved by the US in June 2017, will enhance Taiwan's long-range strike capabilities. The AGM-154 JSOW, weighing 1,000 pounds, provides precision strike capabilities with a standoff range of 12 to 63 nautical miles. The missiles are expected to be delivered within the next four years, contributing to Taiwan's ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities.
China sends ships and fighter jets toward Taiwan in new show of force
Taiwan's defence ministry reported the Chinese People's Liberation Army sent 33 warplanes and six navy vessels towards the self-ruled nation. In the past year, China has been sending navy ships and drones as well as flights in reaction to Taiwan's political activities. The ministry said the aircraft, including J-10 and J-16 fighters, crossed the midline of the Taiwan Strait.
China: US aid to Taiwan won't stop reunifiction bid
China's People's Liberation Army has increased its military maneuvers in recent years aimed at Taiwan, sending fighter jets and warships to circle the island. On Sunday, Taiwan's ministry of national Defence said it tracked six Chinese navy ships near the island.
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