Trump Halts $400M Taiwan Arms Shipment Ahead of Xi Jinping Talks, Raising Strategic Concerns

In a move raising concerns about US-Taiwan relations, President Donald Trump has reportedly paused a $400-million military aid package to Taiwan, according to The Washington Post. The decision comes just ahead of a scheduled call with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The halted shipment included munitions and autonomous drones, and sources suggest the pause reflects Trump’s “transactional approach” to foreign policy, emphasizing that allies should invest in their own defense rather than rely on the US for military assistance. The Washington Post cited unnamed sources familiar with the matter, noting the administration may still reverse the decision.

Taiwan, facing ongoing military pressure from China, has long depended on US support to deter potential aggression. Recent months have seen Beijing increase its military activity near the island, including frequent naval and aerial patrols.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has responded by ramping up the island’s defense budget and approving additional funding to acquire drones and naval assets. Nevertheless, the suspension of aid has sparked concerns that the US may be prioritizing a trade deal with China over Taiwan’s security.

The timing of the halt coincides with ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China, covering issues such as TikTok and rare earth exports. Trump is reportedly under pressure as China has shifted significant soybean imports from the US to Brazil, impacting American farmers.

China continues to assert its claims over Taiwan. In December 2024, Xi Jinping reaffirmed that efforts to prevent China’s reunification with Taiwan would fail, framing the situation as a historical imperative.

With military tensions high and arms shipments delayed, analysts see Trump’s decision as a potentially risky bid to secure favorable trade terms with Beijing, raising strategic concerns for Taiwan’s security.