U.S. Lawmakers Back Taiwan Defense Budget Amid Stalemate

The Globe and Atlas

Summary

U.S. senators support Taiwan's stalled $40 billion defense budget amid China’s objections.

Why this matters

The support emphasizes U.S. commitment to Taiwan's self-defense amid regional security tensions with China.

U.S. lawmakers expressed support on Monday for Taiwan’s efforts to pass a $40 billion defense budget stalled in its opposition-controlled parliament.

A bipartisan group of four senators, including Jeanne Shaheen and Jacky Rosen (Democrats), and John Curtis and Thom Tillis (Republicans), visited Taiwan to strengthen U.S.-Taiwan ties amid rising tensions with China. The group met with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te during a two-day visit primarily focused on enhancing informal relations between the U.S. and Taiwan.

China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes official exchanges with Taiwan by any countries it has diplomatic ties with, including the U.S.

During the visit, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged the U.S. to stop sending ‘wrong signals’ to Taiwanese independence forces, stating China would ‘safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.’

The defense budget proposes investments over eight years in missile defense, AI integration, and Taiwan’s defense industry. Opposition parties have suggested smaller budgets. President Lai emphasized the importance of passing the budget to continue strengthening Taiwan’s defense capabilities.

Curtis acknowledged Taiwan’s progress in defense and energy security, noting that Taiwan’s efforts are recognized and supported in Washington, D.C.

Meanwhile, opposition leader Cheng Li-wun announced plans to visit China next month to foster peaceful relations with Beijing. There are no confirmed plans for her to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

This visit comes ahead of a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where arms sales to Taiwan are expected to be a topic of discussion.

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