Some officials in Washington are reportedly concerned that moving forward with a major weapons package for Taiwan could complicate President Trump’s planned visit to China in April.
The proposed $11.1 billion arms deal which includes medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones was first introduced in December and would rank among the largest U.S. sales to Taiwan to date. Beijing strongly objected to the announcement at the time, and in the weeks that followed, China carried out live-fire military drills involving its air force, navy, and rocket units. Taiwan’s military responded by raising its alert level.
Now, with trade discussions between Washington and Beijing expected to resume, some U.S. officials believe approving the deal before Trump’s trip could create diplomatic friction at a delicate moment. According to reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping raised the issue directly during a recent phone call with Trump, urging caution over additional weapons sales to the self-governing island, which China considers part of its territory.
Taiwan, however, remains a critical U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific. Under the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, the United States is committed to providing Taiwan with defensive arms to help it maintain its security. For decades, U.S. policy has balanced support for Taiwan’s self-defense with efforts to manage a complex relationship with Beijing.
On Monday, Trump confirmed to reporters that he discussed the matter with Xi, describing their conversation as constructive and saying a decision would be made soon. Some foreign policy experts note that direct discussions with Chinese leadership about Taiwan arms sales are unusual and could raise questions about long-standing diplomatic norms governing U.S.-Taiwan relations.
Inside the administration, advisers are said to be weighing both strategic and economic considerations. While some officials insist that Trump would not allow Beijing to dictate U.S. policy, others acknowledge that preserving a trade truce with China is also a priority.
As Trump’s state visit approaches, debate continues in Washington over whether approving the arms package now would reinforce U.S. commitments to Taiwan or complicate broader negotiations with China at a sensitive time.
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