In a revelation that could send shockwaves through international diplomacy, former US President Donald Trump has indicated he would dramatically overhaul America's approach to Taiwan if returned to power.
During a wide-ranging interview with CBS's 60 Minutes, the Republican figurehead suggested he might discard the decades-old 'One China' policy that has formed the bedrock of Sino-American relations since 1979.
A Strategic Pivot
The bombshell comments came when Trump was pressed on how his administration would handle the delicate Taiwan-China relationship. His response pointed toward a potential seismic shift in US foreign policy orientation.
'I would make a deal with China that would be on Taiwan,' Trump stated, though he notably declined to specify whether he would continue recognising Beijing's claim over the self-governing island.
Historical Context and Implications
Since normalising relations with China under President Jimmy Carter, the United States has formally acknowledged Beijing's position that Taiwan is part of China. This understanding has prevented direct military confrontation but has frequently strained diplomatic ties.
Trump's latest remarks suggest a willingness to use Taiwan as leverage in broader negotiations with China, potentially upending decades of careful diplomatic balancing.
Regional Reactions
Geopolitical analysts warn that such a policy shift could have profound consequences for regional stability. Taiwan has emerged as one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints, with China repeatedly emphasising its willingness to use force to prevent permanent separation.
The interview revelations come amid heightened military activity in the Taiwan Strait and increasing Western concern about Beijing's territorial ambitions.
Political Calculations
Trump's positioning on Taiwan appears consistent with his administration's more confrontational approach toward China, which included significant trade tariffs and heightened rhetoric about Chinese economic practices.
However, explicitly questioning the 'One China' policy represents an escalation that even his previous administration stopped short of implementing, despite several provocative moves including high-level official visits to Taipei.
As geopolitical tensions continue to simmer, Trump's comments signal that Taiwan may become an even more central battleground in the emerging US-China cold war.
