Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Sunday defended continued arms purchases from the United States, describing them as essential for maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait after comments by U.S. President Donald Trump raised concerns in Taipei.
Speaking amid growing regional tensions, Lai emphasized that defense cooperation between Taiwan and the United States serves as a critical deterrent against conflict. He stated that American arms sales are not only protected under U.S. law but also contribute to broader regional security in East Asia.
Lai thanked Trump for maintaining support for Taiwan since his first presidential term, highlighting the increase in military assistance and weapons packages approved over recent years. His remarks were aimed at reassuring the Taiwanese public after Trump suggested that future arms sales could depend on negotiations with China.
During a televised interview aired Friday following his visit to China, Trump said he had not yet approved a proposed $14 billion military package for Taiwan. He referred to Taiwan as “a very good negotiating chip,” signaling that future decisions may be influenced by ongoing U.S.-China relations.
The comments sparked debate and concern across Taiwan, where many view American military backing as essential to the island’s security. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly vowed to reunify the island with the mainland, by force if necessary.
Despite lacking formal diplomatic recognition from Washington, Taiwan remains one of the United States’ closest partners in the Indo-Pacific region. U.S. law requires Washington to provide Taiwan with defensive capabilities and treat threats against the island as a matter of serious concern.
Earlier this year, Trump approved a record $11 billion defense package for Taiwan that included advanced missiles, drones, artillery systems, and military software designed to strengthen the island’s defense capabilities.
Lai stressed that Taiwan seeks peace and stability but will not surrender its democratic system, sovereignty, or freedoms under external pressure. He accused China of escalating regional instability and attempting to alter the status quo through military and political pressure.
The issue has become increasingly sensitive in U.S.-China relations. Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned Trump during recent discussions that mishandling the Taiwan issue could lead to serious confrontation between the two global powers.
Meanwhile, senior American officials attempted to calm concerns following Trump’s remarks. Mike Johnson voiced support for Taiwan and stated that Congress remains committed to preventing any forced takeover of the island. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer also confirmed that the administration continues to evaluate future arms sales based on broader American national security interests.
Taiwan and China have governed separately since 1949, when the Chinese Civil War ended with Nationalist forces retreating to Taiwan after the Communist Party took control of mainland China. Over the decades, Taiwan developed into a democratic society, while Beijing continues to claim sovereignty over the island
