Taiwan asserts US will not abandon Indo-Pacific security commitments

Taiwan's Defense Minister Wellington Koo has asserted that it is 'impossible' for the United States to abandon its commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing that it is a core national interest. His comments come in the wake of heightened concerns regarding U.S. security support for Taiwan following a contentious exchange between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Koo highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, especially as China continues to assert pressure on Taiwan. He noted Taiwan's plans to increase military spending and support for its semiconductor industry, particularly Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, as necessary measures amid the changing geopolitical landscape. Koo reaffirmed that the U.S. remains Taiwan's most critical security partner, despite doubts raised by Trump's past criticisms of Taiwan's defense spending. The Taiwanese government continues to rely on deterrence and strength to achieve peace with China.