Amid rising concerns about U.S. support for Taiwan under President Donald Trump, Taiwan has received reassurance that deterring a Chinese takeover of the island remains a military priority. This comes after a secret interim memo outlining Trump’s vision for preparing and winning a potential war against China was circulated.
Taiwan had been nervous, especially after the Trump administration’s “America First” foreign policy led to suspended military assistance for Ukraine, creating doubts about the U.S. commitment to Taiwan’s security.
Taiwan Faces Increased Chinese Pressure, U.S. Shifts Strategy to Strengthen Military Support
Taiwan, with its population of 23 million and critical position as a leader in semiconductor manufacturing, has long relied on U.S. support to prevent Chinese territorial expansion. However, the pressure from China has intensified, with military exercises and frequent incursions into Taiwanese airspace and waters. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to use force if necessary to take control, creating significant uncertainty about the island’s future.
Taiwan Strengthens Defense and U.S. Ties Amid Rising Chinese Pressure and Military Strategy ShiftThe memo, signed by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, marked a shift in U.S. defense strategy, placing Taiwan at the forefront of U.S. military priorities. The document emphasizes preventing a Chinese “fait accompli” takeover of Taiwan while balancing other defense commitments.
This marks a stronger position than the previous ambiguity about whether the U.S. would militarily intervene if China attacked. Analysts like William Chung were surprised by this clear statement of intent, easing fears that the Trump administration might overlook Taiwan, as it had with Ukraine.
Taiwan Boosts Defense Spending and Strengthens U.S. Ties Amid Rising China Tensions
In response to the shifting U.S. posture, Taiwan has actively sought to align itself with Trump’s emphasis on defense spending. Taiwanese officials have increased military expenditures, with President Lai Ching-te promising to raise defense spending to 3% of GDP.
Additionally, Taiwan has taken steps to solidify economic and military ties with the U.S., such as the $8 billion purchase of F-16V fighter jets and investments in U.S. chip manufacturing. These moves aim to appeal to the Trump administration’s focus on military self-reliance among U.S. allies.
While the U.S. policy shift strengthens Taiwan’s security, it also risks escalating tensions with China. Experts warn that a harder U.S. stance could provoke Beijing, potentially leading to more aggressive military actions in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea.
China’s response could include increased military presence or economic sanctions, leaving Taiwan vulnerable. The situation remains delicate, as any further provocation could increase the likelihood of conflict, with Taiwan caught in the crossfire of a growing geopolitical rivalry.