WASHINGTON (MNN); U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that he is discussing potential arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping has raised alarm in Taipei, as the self-governed island depends heavily on U.S. support amid China’s territorial claims.
On Monday, Trump told reporters that he had spoken with Xi about the possible weapons sales and that a decision would be made soon. He described their conversation as positive and said he maintains “a very good relationship” with the Chinese leader.
The remarks surprised many analysts, who warned that consulting Beijing on arms sales to Taiwan could contradict long-standing U.S. foreign policy principles. William Yang of the International Crisis Group said the move may conflict with the “Six Assurances,” a set of policy guidelines introduced under Ronald Reagan in 1982. One of those assurances states that Washington would not consult China regarding arms sales to Taiwan.
China claims Taiwan as its territory and has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control. Beijing opposes any formal ties between Taiwan and countries that recognize China diplomatically and frequently sends military aircraft and naval vessels near the island.
Although the U.S. does not maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it remains the island’s largest arms supplier under the Taiwan Relations Act, which obligates Washington to provide Taiwan with defensive capabilities. In December, the Trump administration approved a record arms package worth over $11 billion.
Beijing strongly criticized the deal. During a recent phone call, Xi emphasized that the Taiwan issue is the most sensitive matter in U.S.-China relations and urged Washington to handle arms sales “prudently.”
Experts note that U.S.-Taiwan relations rest on three pillars: the Taiwan Relations Act, the “Three Communiqués” between Washington and Beijing, and the Six Assurances. Together, these form the basis of America’s long-standing policy of strategic ambiguity.
Some analysts argue that Trump’s comments create the perception that China could influence U.S. arms decisions regarding Taiwan. Hoo Tiang Boon of Nanyang Technological University described the development as troubling, especially from Taiwan’s perspective.
Trump is expected to visit China in April, where Taiwan will likely be a key topic alongside trade and advanced technology issues. Observers say uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments may deepen skepticism in Taiwan about whether Washington would intervene in the event of a Chinese attack.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s government, led by President Lai Ching-te, is facing challenges in securing parliamentary approval for funding existing U.S. arms packages. Opposition lawmakers have indicated they will review a proposed $40 billion defense budget later this month.
