Trump Turns Taiwan Arms Sales Into Bargaining Chip With China
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- President Trump referred to a potential $14 billion weapons sale to Taiwan as a "negotiating chip" in talks with China, casting uncertainty on U.S. military support for Taiwan.
- Taiwan has been awaiting approval for the package, which includes missiles, anti-drone equipment, and air-defense systems to defend against Beijing's threats.
- Trump indicated he is holding the arms deal "in abeyance," linking its approval to concessions from China, though he did not specify what he expects in return.
- The weapons sale was discussed during Trump's recent summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Trump has previously pressured Taiwan to increase its defense spending.
- Trump has also sought major purchases of American goods from China, such as airplanes and agricultural products, as part of broader trade negotiations.