US Cancels Taiwan Defense Meeting Amid China Trade Talks

The United States recently canceled a planned meeting between Taiwanese Defense Minister Wellington Koo and U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, reflecting President Donald Trump's cautious approach to avoid antagonizing China amid ongoing trade negotiations. The cancellation, reportedly decided at the last minute, was officially attributed to poor timing due to U.S. military strikes on Iran, but several sources suggest concerns that the meeting could undermine U.S.-China trade talks and hinder a potential Trump-Xi summit. Alongside this, the Trump administration also denied transit permission for Taiwan's regional leader Lai Ching-te to stop in New York, imposing restrictions on his itinerary to avoid public engagements. These moves indicate a softer U.S. stance towards China, aiming to maintain diplomatic balance while Taiwan seeks to enhance its defense capabilities amid pressures. The U.S. and Taiwan are discussing rescheduling the meeting, though the White House reportedly prefers a lower-level dialogue to reduce tensions. This situation underscores the delicate nature of U.S.-Taiwan relations, constrained by the longstanding one-China policy and concerns over provoking Beijing.