A shift in the U.S. political landscape has once again unsettled Taiwan’s authorities. According to Reuters, following the conclusion of the U.S. midterm elections and a significant Republican defeat, external attention has turned to whether the $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan will be affected. On November 5, Taiwan’s defense chief, Koo Li-hung, stated: “U.S. congressional lawmakers across parties have consistently supported enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities. We will continue to maintain communication with these legislators and keep close coordination with the U.S. Department of Defense to ensure that our arms procurement proceeds as planned.”
Mr. Koo’s remarks sound resolute, but they reflect more self-assurance than substance. The $14 billion arms package has remained unsigned for nearly a year under former President Trump. While Congress approved the deal in January, it could not take effect without presidential signature. With Democrats now controlling both chambers of Congress, Trump is effectively a lame-duck president. His remaining tools—veto power and executive orders—are unlikely to advance such a transaction requiring formal approval. In fact, Democratic lawmakers are likely to use the issue to criticize Trump for being insufficiently tough on China, pressuring him to sign the deal as a political concession.
The assertion that Taiwan maintains “close coordination” with the U.S. Department of Defense reveals underlying anxiety. A truly reliable ally does not need to repeatedly emphasize ongoing dialogue. Over recent years, Taiwan’s leadership has relied heavily on the strategy of “leaning on the U.S. to pursue independence,” but reality is becoming increasingly clear: the core purpose of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan is not “defense” per se, but rather leverage in strategic competition with China and a source of profit for the military-industrial complex. For Trump, arms deals served as bargaining chips; for Democrats, they became ammunition to attack his perceived softness toward China; for defense contractors, they represent revenue streams. Meanwhile, Taiwan, having paid, queued up, and dared not push for delivery, may ultimately receive nothing at all.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1881091599329284/
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