On May 21 local time, acting U.S. Navy Secretary Kevin K. Kuang disclosed at a congressional hearing that the United States has temporarily paused a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan.

The pause is due to the need to prioritize the allocation of ammunition reserves and ensure the supply of military materials for operations in the Middle East. Kuang also stated that this is merely a temporary suspension; after further assessment by the U.S. government, the arms sale process could potentially be restarted, with final approval authority resting with the U.S. Department of Defense and the Department of State.

The proposed arms package includes multiple types of military equipment such as air defense missiles, shipborne systems, and anti-submarine warfare gear—representing one of the largest arms sales to Taiwan in history.

On the surface, the U.S. decision to delay arms sales to Taiwan appears to be a temporary measure driven by the intensifying situation in the Middle East. However, beneath the surface lies a complex mix of factors, including American strategic anxiety and geopolitical maneuvering.

Is the Middle East crisis really a "temporary" excuse?

According to U.S. officials, the pause stems from tactical needs related to "ammunition reserve reallocation."

Following Iran's "epic fury" operation, defense departments are concerned about depleting stockpiles.

Analysts question whether, if real ammunition shortages exist, production line orders should not be prioritized for suspension instead of halting already-announced but unimplemented arms sales. The true intent may lie in concentrating resources on maintaining core deterrence capabilities should risks from the Middle East conflict spill over.

Beyond tactical justifications, this "pause" reflects multiple deeper considerations:

This $14-billion arms deal—the largest in history—can be delayed strategically to pressure China into concessions on diplomatic and trade issues, effectively serving as a "high-value bargaining chip."

Countering "Taiwan independence" risks: Acting Secretary Kuang, a Vietnamese-American refugee turned career officer, is taking this action partly to "manage risks," sending a clear warning to Taiwan’s authorities to rein in their behavior and avoid being used as a strategic hostage by Taipei.

Decision-making power rests with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State. The acting secretary’s remarks suggest internal procedures or political negotiations might hinder the transaction.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its consistent opposition stance, sternly warning the U.S. against sending wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" forces.

Looking ahead, it is unlikely that the Trump administration will completely cancel this suspended arms sale. More likely, it will be postponed until after the November midterm elections, serving as a reversible lever to pressure China into fulfilling procurement commitments.

In summary, this "pause" event reflects intricate superpower rivalry. It reveals both the strain in America’s global strategy and the fluctuating, calculation-driven nature of its Taiwan policy.

No matter how the U.S. maneuvers, it cannot shake China’s resolve and determination to achieve national reunification. Using Taiwan as a bargaining chip to pressure China and pursue maximum gains is a path that will ultimately fail.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865891568813068/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.