The United States is expediting arms deliveries to Taiwan, according to Raymond Greene, director of the American Institute in Taiwan. This move aims to reassure Taipei amid concerns over the Trump administration’s decision to pause military aid to Ukraine.
“We are actively working to accelerate delivery timelines, particularly for equipment related to asymmetric warfare, as this is especially crucial for Taiwan’s defence,” Greene stated in an interview with the Liberty Times. He added that once the war in Ukraine concludes, the US is expected to refocus on Taiwan’s defence needs.
Taiwan relies heavily on US military support to counter China’s ambitions to bring the self-governed democracy of 23 million people under its control, potentially by force. However, the flow of American military hardware to Taiwan has slowed in recent years due to the US prioritizing aid to Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.
Concerns over Washington’s commitment to Taiwan have grown since a contentious Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Following the encounter, the US halted all pending military assistance to Ukraine until Zelensky demonstrated a commitment to peace, raising questions about the future of US support for Taiwan.
Taiwanese Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Chihchung Wu recently expressed hope for stronger security ties with the US, stating that Taiwan is “praying” for continued backing.
Meanwhile, China has intensified its military intimidation of Taiwan, conducting frequent exercises around the island and testing its air force and naval capabilities. In February, Wang Huning, a senior Chinese official, used stronger rhetoric, urging his nation to “shape the inevitable reunification of the motherland.”
The developments underscore the precarious security situation in the region, as Taiwan navigates growing pressure from Beijing and uncertainties in US support.