On Sunday, the administration of President Joe Biden announced the authorization of a defense support package worth $567 million for Taiwan, according to an announcement from the White House. This action represents the latest effort by the U.S. to strengthen the military capabilities of the island amid escalating tensions with China. The U.S. plays a pivotal role as the primary international supporter and provider of arms to Taiwan, despite the lack of official diplomatic relations.
Beijing has continuously urged the U.S. government to halt its arms sales to Taipei, asserting sovereignty over the island. The White House released a statement indicating that Biden had granted the Secretary of State the power “to direct the drawdown of up to $567 million in defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan.” No additional information was disclosed.
Furthermore, in April, Biden enacted a significantly contested piece of legislation that allocates billions in new financial aid from the U.S. to support Ukraine in its conflict against Russia, alongside aid for Israel and Taiwan. There have been grievances from Taipei regarding the postponement of U.S. arms shipments, notably including the anticipated upgrades for F-14 fighter jets.