US Senator Wicker Plans Congressional Taiwan Visit Amid China Tensions

Senator Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, is set to lead a U.S. congressional delegation to Taiwan in August, reaffirming strong congressional support amid rising tensions between the U.S., Taiwan, and China. The visit comes at a sensitive time as President Donald Trump balances trade negotiations with China and security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region, with some lawmakers worried Trump might be deprioritizing Taiwan’s security. Wicker, a staunch advocate for Taiwan, has drawn criticism from Beijing, which opposes any official U.S.-Taiwan exchanges and insists on adherence to the one-China principle. Taiwan officials are also apprehensive about the Trump administration’s recent policy shifts, including discouraging Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s planned U.S. transit and canceling high-level defense meetings, fueling fears of diminished U.S. commitment. Experts view Wicker’s visit as a crucial signal of continued U.S. support for Taiwan’s democracy and security, potentially deterring Beijing and strengthening economic and defense ties. The overall context includes ongoing U.S.-China trade talks and increased Chinese military pressure on Taiwan, prompting Taipei to bolster its defenses, including developing a drone army as part of an asymmetric strategy.