The Chinese government hinted on Wednesday that Donald Trump, the Republican candidate in the US presidential election, may “withdraw” support for Taiwan if he wins. Referring to Trump’s “America First” policy during his previous presidency, Chinese officials said that in this case, Taiwan would remain vulnerable to possible Chinese aggression, Reuters reports.
During his election campaign, Trump repeatedly emphasised that Taiwan, which China considers its territory, should pay for its defence. He also accused the island of “hijacking” American semiconductor business, which caused concern among Taiwanese leaders.
Responding to these statements, Zhu Fengliang, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing, said that Taiwanese already have a “clear understanding” of US policy. “Regardless of whether the United States is trying to protect or harm Taiwan, I believe that most of our compatriots in Taiwan have already made a rational judgement and know very clearly that the United States always acts in its own interests,” she said, quoting Trump’s famous “America First” phrase.
Zhu also added that the people of Taiwan are aware: “Taiwan can turn from a pawn to an abandoned child at any time,” although she did not directly name the Republican candidate.
US law obliges the United States to provide Taiwan with means of self-defence, even in the absence of formal diplomatic relations. Nevertheless, Trump’s rhetoric raises concerns that if he wins, the United States may reconsider its position.
Last week, in an interview for The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Trump again accused Taiwan of “stealing” the US chip business and stressed that the island should pay for military protection.
Commenting on these statements, Taiwan’s Minister for Economic Affairs Kuo Ji-hui noted that the Taiwanese government refrains from making any comments given that the US campaign is ongoing. “I wish the United States success in holding democratic elections,” he added.
The Trump administration actively supported Taiwan in 2017-2021, and arms sales continued under Joe Biden’s presidency. However, on Friday, Washington announced a new arms package for Taiwan worth almost two billion dollars. This decision caused further discontent in Beijing, which views support for Taiwan as interference in China’s internal affairs.
Zhu has warned the administration of President Lai Ching-teh that arms purchases do not guarantee security. Taiwan’s democratically elected government insists that only its citizens can decide the island’s future, rejecting Beijing’s claims to sovereignty.
