Taiwan Clarifies the Status of U.S. Arms Sale Discussions

TAIPEI - The Taiwanese government confirmed on Monday that there are currently no new discussions regarding arms sales with the United States. This statement comes at a time when Taiwan is evaluating how to respond to comments from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has suggested that the island should contribute financially to its own defense.

Last week, Trump, who secured his second term, raised concerns by stating that Taiwan should pay the U.S. for defense support and accused the island of moving its semiconductor industry away from the U.S., especially in light of China's view of Taiwan as its territory.

While details of Trump's remarks about Taiwan's contributions to its defense remain unclear, familiar sources indicate that Taiwan may make significant arms purchases from the U.S. early in Trump's new term.

In response to reports of a planned large-scale arms purchase from the U.S., Taiwan's presidential office issued a statement highlighting the island’s efforts to strengthen their defense capabilities against growing military threats from China and underscoring its determination to maintain self-defense.

The presidential office stated, "There has been a period of consolidation and discussion regarding military needs between Taiwan and the U.S., but there is currently no new stage of discussion." No further details regarding the nature of these discussions were provided.

Taiwan, which does not accept China's sovereignty claims, has previously expressed frustration over delays in a $20 billion arms delivery ordered from the U.S. Despite lacking official diplomatic relations, the U.S. continues to be Taiwan's most significant international supporter and arms supplier. Unlike Japan and South Korea, Taiwan does not have a defense agreement with the U.S.