Biden Approves $567m Defense Support For Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions With China

On Sunday, U.S. President Joe Biden approved a significant $567 million in defense support for Taiwan, as announced by the White House. This funding represents the latest effort by the United States to bolster Taiwan’s military capabilities in response to escalating tensions with China.

Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, the United States remains Taiwan’s most vital international supporter and arms supplier. China has persistently demanded that Washington cease its arms sales to Taipei, which it considers a part of its territory.

In a statement, the White House revealed that Biden had delegated authority to the Secretary of State to oversee the drawdown of up to $567 million in defense articles, services from the Department of Defense, and military education and training for Taiwan. However, the White House did not provide further specifics regarding the nature of the support.

This announcement follows Biden’s signing of a comprehensive bill in April that allocated billions in U.S. aid not only to Ukraine for its ongoing conflict with Russia but also to Israel and Taiwan. Taipei has expressed concerns over delays in U.S. arms deliveries, particularly regarding upgrades for its F-14 fighter jets.

China has intensified its military and political pressure on Taiwan in recent years, asserting its claims over the democratically governed island, which Taipei strongly contests. The situation continues to evolve as the U.S. reaffirms its commitment to supporting Taiwan amid rising regional tensions.

Melissa Enoch

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