US Lawmakers Reiterate Defense Support for Taiwan Amid China Tensions

Amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, U.S. lawmakers have reaffirmed bipartisan support for Taiwan's self-defense and peaceful cross-strait relations. Representative Seth Moulton emphasized the U.S. commitment to enhancing Taiwan's defense capabilities, particularly through encouraging asymmetric defense strategies to deter Chinese aggression and maintain regional stability. Moulton also highlighted Congressional efforts to deepen economic ties, including pursuit of a free trade deal, while warning against isolationist trends in U.S. foreign policy. Similarly, Senator Pete Ricketts, during a visit to Taipei with other bipartisan lawmakers, reiterated that the U.S. opposes any unilateral changes to Taiwan's status and expects differences with China to be resolved peacefully, assuring continued U.S. assistance for Taiwan's self-defense. Taiwanese President William Lai expressed commitment to increased defense spending and ongoing collaboration with the U.S. for regional stability. Despite changes in U.S. administrations and ongoing trade tensions, both Democratic and Republican leaders conveyed optimism about the future of U.S.-Taiwan relations.