Trump’s administration has resumed $870 million in security assistance to Taiwan, a move that’s infuriated China and escalated already tense relations between the global powers. The decision comes at a critical moment as Beijing conducts provocative military drills near the democratic island it claims as its own territory.
At a Glance
- The U.S. has unfrozen approximately $870 million in security assistance for Taiwan amid rising tensions with China
- This decision follows a temporary freeze on foreign aid ordered by the Trump administration earlier this year
- China has responded with live-fire military drills near Taiwan and strongly worded diplomatic protests
- Taiwan has been monitoring increased Chinese military activity around the island
- An undersea cable near Taiwan was recently severed, the third such incident in two years, raising suspicions of Chinese sabotage
America Prioritizes Taiwan’s Defense Despite Aid Freeze
In a significant move demonstrating America’s commitment to countering China’s growing military influence, the Trump administration has unfrozen approximately $870 million in security assistance for Taiwan.
And China won’t be happy about it.
This decision stands in stark contrast to the broader foreign aid freeze implemented by the White House in January, which halted nearly all foreign assistance for a 90-day review period.
The reinstated aid follows a pattern of increasing military support under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Under President Biden, the U.S. approved a $345 million military aid package in 2023 and a $571 million package last year, including free weapons, training, and services for Taiwan’s defense forces. Additionally, Congress has authorized up to $10 billion in interest-free loans for Taiwan through 2027.
Trump’s quiet change on Taiwan a shot across China’s bow
Trump quietly tweaks official language on Taiwan, including on island’s potential independence, sending a firm message to China.
The US State Department has removed a highly symbolic phrase from its routine update on… pic.twitter.com/ZjvumHTqVN
— Indo-Pacific News – Geo-Politics & Defense (@IndoPac_Info) February 20, 2025
China Responds with Military Posturing and Threats
Beijing’s response to America’s funding decision has been swift and aggressive.
China’s Defense Ministry spokesperson issued an ominous threat directed at Taiwan’s leadership.
“We will come get you sooner or later,” Wu Qian said.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian added that the U.S. decision “sends a gravely wrong signal to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces.”
Yeah, they’re really not happy.
The rhetorical condemnation has been accompanied by concerning military actions. China has initiated live-fire military drills near Taiwan in what appears to be a direct response to the U.S. funding decision. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has reported monitoring increased Chinese military activity around the island, including aircraft, ships, and other military assets moving through the sensitive Taiwan Strait.
Adding to the growing list of provocations, an undersea cable near Taiwan was recently severed – the third such incident in just two years – raising serious suspicions about possible Chinese involvement. This sabotage follows the detention of Chinese sailors by Taiwan’s Coast Guard, further inflaming cross-strait tensions. Similar cable-cutting incidents have occurred in the Baltic Sea, prompting international investigations into potential Chinese responsibility.
There’s a reason Taiwan is under threat, and there’s a reason the U.S. wants to help stop China’s invasion.
China wants to become the global superpower – and it’s very nearly there.
