Washington: U.S. President Joe Biden approved $567 million in defense support for Taiwan on Sunday, as announced by the White House. This decision marks the latest effort by the United States to enhance the island’s military capabilities amid escalating tensions with China.
The United States stands as Taiwan’s most significant international ally and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. China has consistently urged Washington to halt arms sales to Taipei, asserting its claim over the island.
In the White House statement, it was noted that Biden had delegated authority to the Secretary of State “to direct the drawdown of up to $567 million in defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan.” However, the statement did not provide further details regarding the specific types of support included in this package.
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Earlier this year, in April, Biden signed a contentious bill into law, allocating billions of dollars in new U.S. aid to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, as well as support for Israel and Taiwan. Taipei has raised concerns regarding delays in U.S. arms deliveries, notably for upgraded F-14 fighter jets.
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China, which views the democratically governed Taiwan as part of its territory, has intensified military and political pressure over the past five years to assert its claims, which Taipei firmly rejects.
