The United States has paused arms sales to Taiwan to ensure sufficient munitions for its military operations in Iran, according to Washington's acting navy secretary, Hung Cao. This development marks another setback for Taipei following recent comments by President Donald Trump that cast doubt on enduring US support.
Congressional Hearing Reveals Pause
During a congressional hearing on Thursday, Hung Cao was questioned by Senator Mitch McConnell about a $14 billion weapons package awaiting Trump's approval for months. Cao stated, "Right now we're doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for Epic Fury [the Iran war] – which we have plenty." He added that foreign military sales would resume when the administration deems necessary.
McConnell expressed distress over the delay, noting growing concerns that US missile stockpiles have been significantly depleted since the war against Iran began on 28 February. The conflict has since settled into a fragile ceasefire.
Taiwan's Response
In response, Taiwan's presidential office spokesperson, Karen Kuo, said on Friday that Taipei had received "no information indicating that the US intends to make any adjustments to this arms sale." However, the announcement comes just a week after Trump met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where US weapons packages to Taiwan were a key topic.
Beijing has repeatedly stated its resolute opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan, which it regards as a breakaway province. During Trump's visit, Xi warned that the US and China "will collide or even conflict" if the Taiwan issue is not handled well.
Uncertainty Over US Support
Trump has made several statements casting doubt on future US support for Taiwan. In a Fox News interview from Beijing, he described the weapons packages as a "very good negotiating chip," suggesting a willingness to break with longstanding policy of not consulting China on such matters. He also told reporters on Air Force One that he discussed Taiwan in "great detail" with Xi and would soon make a determination on pending packages.
Additionally, Trump has indicated plans to speak with Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, a move that would break diplomatic norms observed since 1979, when Washington shifted recognition from Taipei to Beijing. Taipei has expressed openness to such a call, but it would likely provoke a robust response from China.
Under the Taiwan Relations Act, Washington is required to provide Taipei with sufficient military equipment for self-defence, though the US maintains an ambiguous stance on whether it would defend Taiwan in an invasion scenario.
