US to Expand Arms Sales to Taiwan Amid Tensions

The United States is preparing to boost arms sales to Taiwan, with planned packages set to exceed the $18.3 billion approved during Donald Trump's first term. U.S. officials state the move aims to strengthen deterrence against growing Chinese military pressure, despite the risk of further straining U.S.-China relations. Washington is urging Taiwan’s opposition parties not to block an increase in defense spending to 3% of the island’s budget, emphasizing its importance for Taiwan's security. The arms initiative coincides with renewed U.S.-China disputes over trade, student visas, and technology access, as well as internal Taiwanese debates on defense funding. Chinese officials have warned Washington against taking actions that could heighten tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. maintains it is committed to reinforcing Taiwan's self-defense capabilities.