US Delays $14 Billion Taiwan Arms Package Amid Trump-Xi Tensions

Washington is delaying approval of a $14 billion weapons package for Taiwan, the largest ever, which includes Patriot missiles, an automated command-and-control system and a 360-degree radar for the island’s T-Dome air-defence network. President Donald Trump, after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, has voiced hesitation, warning that the sale could jeopardise a fragile US-China trade truce. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the deal is still being examined, and officials are also assessing whether US arms stockpiles can support ongoing operations in Iran.

Senior Democratic Progressive Party lawmaker Wang Ting-yu said the purchase would demonstrate US commitment and is vital as Taiwan races against time to strengthen its defences. Funding is expected from a $25 billion defence budget approved by Taiwan’s parliament in May. Taiwanese officials have indicated they do not mind whether the weapons are delivered as a single bundle or in smaller portions, emphasizing the urgency of acquisition, delivery and training.