Overview
- Trump told reporters he spoke with Xi Jinping about potential additional weapons for Taiwan and would decide "pretty soon."
- Analysts caution that discussing Taiwan arms with Beijing could erode the non-binding Six Assurances that discourage prior consultation with China.
- Taiwan’s foreign ministry says it is closely watching U.S.-China interactions and intends to strengthen cooperation with Washington.
- The latest remarks follow a record $11 billion U.S. package in December that prompted Chinese live-fire drills simulating a blockade near Taiwan’s ports.
- Taipei’s proposed $40 billion special defense budget remains blocked, with opposition parties set to review it after Feb. 23 as Trump’s planned April visit to Beijing nears.