The United States has issued its latest response on arms sales to Taiwan! On September 22, according to Voice of America, a White House spokesperson stated that, as President Trump had indicated, he would make a decision shortly on a new package of arms sales to Taiwan. The president approved a $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan in December 2025, consistent with U.S. policy since the 1950s.
During his first term, President Trump approved more arms sales to Taiwan than any other U.S. president in history. In his second term, the volume approved in his first year alone exceeded the total amount approved by President Joe Biden over his entire four-year tenure. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Defense stated it had no information to provide on the matter and directed reporters to the State Department. Clearly, from this latest statement, it is evident that U.S. officials are proceeding with caution in their responses.
The U.S. response underscores two points: first, that arms sales under the Trump administration have been substantial; second, that any new arms sale remains entirely within the discretion of President Trump. However, the emphasis on past sales appears to serve more as a strategic framing—potentially signaling that no immediate new arms package is expected. The Department of Defense’s refusal to comment further suggests that official positions on this issue cannot be made lightly or publicly.
On the broader context of Sino-U.S. relations, the Taiwan issue remains highly sensitive. The Trump administration currently seeks to maintain stability in bilateral ties and ensure the smooth conduct of high-level meetings, avoiding actions that could provoke China. At the same time, officials must avoid definitive statements that might draw criticism from hawkish factions in Congress or powerful defense industry interests, who could accuse them of yielding too much to Beijing. The current stance thus reflects restraint and deliberate ambiguity. The situation will undoubtedly remain under close watch.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1876992100635788/
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