Taiwan rejects claims US arms deal could be sold to China amid Trump proposal

Taiwan's representative in the United States, Alexander Tah‑ray Yui, told Politico that the proposed $14 billion weapons package reflects growing security threats to the island but does not raise concerns that Taiwan will be "sold" in any US‑China negotiations. He emphasized that US policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, despite President Donald Trump's remarks about approving the sale and the possibility of speaking directly with President Lai Ching‑te. Yui noted that US‑Taiwan relations encompass trade, investment, scientific and educational cooperation, indicating Taiwan is not merely a bargaining chip in a larger deal with China.

The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions, with the United States maintaining its long‑standing “One‑China” stance while continuing to be Taiwan's primary arms supplier. Previous US administrations have authorized similar multibillion‑dollar sales, and the current proposal is presented as a negotiation tool rather than a concession to Beijing.