Taiwan Prepares for Trump's Second Presidency

As Donald Trump prepares for a potential second presidency, concerns grow over Taiwan's security amidst a shift towards his 'America First' policies, which emphasize transactional diplomacy. Trump's past rhetoric has suggested that Taiwan should compensate the U.S. for its defense, causing anxiety about U.S. commitment to Taiwan's security against a backdrop of increasing Chinese military pressure. Appointments of China hawks in Trump's cabinet signal a tough stance on China and a potential re-evaluation of U.S. support for Taiwan, while Taiwan is considering significant arms purchases to bolster its defense capabilities. Experts urge Taiwan to adapt its strategy to align with U.S. national interests, as shared values are likely to take a backseat in Trump's foreign policy. Despite fears, some analysts, including Singapore's Lee Hsien Loong, downplay immediate risks of conflict over Taiwan during Trump's term, suggesting a longer-term perspective. Overall, Taiwan's future interactions with the U.S. will require a nuanced understanding of Trump's transactional approach to international relations.