Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te defended arms purchases from the United States on Sunday, calling them 'the most important deterrent' against regional conflict. This comes after President Donald Trump described a proposed $14 billion arms package as 'a very good negotiating chip' in an interview with Fox News, following his recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Trump has already approved a record $11 billion arms package for Taiwan in December. In the interview, he said he hasn't greenlit the new $14 billion package and that it 'depends on China.'
Lai’s statement sought to ease concerns on the island, emphasizing that US arms sales are governed by law and are a catalyst for peace and stability. 'Taiwan will not provoke or escalate conflict,' Lai said, 'but it will not relinquish its national sovereignty.'
US House Speaker Mike Johnson backed Lai, stating, 'China cannot just go take over land, and we’re going to stand strong and resolute by that.'
China has framed Taiwan as the most important issue in US-China relations. President Xi warned Trump of 'clashes and even conflicts' if the Taiwan issue isn't handled properly.