U.S.-Taiwan Arms Deal Sparks Diplomatic Tensions with Beijing

The U.S. approved a $330 million aircraft parts sale to Taiwan, marking the first arms deal under President Trump, eliciting appreciation from Taiwan and anger from China. This move strengthens Taiwan's defense capabilities amidst China's assertive stance over the island, underscoring U.S. support for Taiwan's security.

The United States has approved a $330 million sale of fighter jet and other aircraft parts to Taiwan, marking the first arms transaction since President Donald Trump assumed office. While Taipei welcomed the decision, Beijing reacted with customary displeasure, highlighting underlying geopolitical tensions.

According to the Pentagon, this sale aims to bolster Taiwan's ability to counter current and future threats by maintaining their F-16, C-130, and other aircraft. Despite formal diplomatic relations with Beijing, Washington remains Taiwan's key arms supplier, continuing its commitment under U.S. law to support the island's defense capabilities.

China, claiming Taiwan as its own territory, opposes such sales, viewing them as crossings of a major diplomatic 'red line.' Concurrently, U.S.-Taiwan security partnerships are deemed essential for Indo-Pacific stability, intensifying the complex trilateral relations involving Trump, Xi Jinping, and the broader geopolitical balance.

(With inputs from agencies.)