A recent televised debate between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has sparked concerns in Taiwan regarding the US’s commitment to providing security to its allies.
“We have indeed noticed the rapidly changing and complex international situation. Therefore, we understand it is crucial to not only discuss values but also national interests,” Koo told reporters during a briefing when asked whether the US is still a reliable security partner for Taiwan.
“So, does maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, constitute a core national interest of the United States?” Koo inquired.
“I believe it is impossible for the United States to withdraw from the Indo-Pacific region since it is part of their core national interests,” he said, providing his own response.
Taiwan increases military spending
Koo stated that in light of the rapidly changing international situation and the increasing threats from adversaries, Taiwan plans to increase its military spending. Specific figures were not mentioned.
On Tuesday, the presidential office announced that the Taiwanese government will provide support to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (TSMC) as they expand into the US while keeping their most advanced technologies in their home country.
Trump had repeatedly criticized Taiwan for its dominance in the global semiconductor chip industry and even suggested that the island should increase its defense spending to 10% of its GDP. Taiwan currently allocates around 2.45% of its GDP to its military.
US-Taiwan relations
The US provides Taiwan with its primary security support in the face of a constant threat of invasion by Beijing.
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has not ruled out the use of force to consolidate its borders.
Under the previous administration of Joe Biden, the US provided significant defense support and remained Taiwan’s strongest ally, despite not having official diplomatic ties. Whether this will change under the current president remains uncertain.
Just last week, Trump did not commit to defending Taiwan if China were to invade.
Edited by: Farah Bahgat
