U.S. understands Taiwan’s defence needs amid China threat, official says

A senior Taiwanese diplomat stated on Sunday that the United States comprehends Taiwan's defense requirements and the military pressures it faces from China, following a recent summit between U.S. and Chinese leaders, according to Reuters. Taiwan has been awaiting President Donald Trump's approval of a new U.S. arms sales package valued at approximately $14 billion, following a record $11 billion package announced last December.

The latest package was put on hold after Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in May and has not been addressed publicly since the summit last week. Trump reportedly assured Chinese leaders on Saturday that he shared their stance on Taiwan.

Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi informed Reuters that Washington is cognizant of the security situation in the Taiwan Strait and Taipei's defense needs. He emphasized that China persistently invests resources in enhancing its military capabilities, emphasizing that Taiwan continues to maintain communication with U.S. officials regarding its defense needs. Chen also highlighted Taiwan's commitment to investing in its military, based on multiple exchanges between both nations.

U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue told CNBC on Friday that Trump's Taiwan policy has not changed, encompassing Washington's approach to arms sales. Chen stated that Taiwanese officials had repeatedly received assurances from their U.S. counterparts that Washington's policy towards the island remained unchanged. Under U.S. law, the country is obligated to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has consistently urged Washington to cease arms sales to the island. Taiwan's government rejects China's sovereignty claims and maintains that the island's populace should decide its future. China has also dismissed several proposals for dialogue from Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing labels as a separatist.