U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that a proposed $14 billion arms package for Taiwan is not paused but is undergoing the standard review process. Addressing the U.S. Senate, Rubio emphasized that describing the package as “paused” is misleading, as the evaluation is part of the routine procedure due to the package’s significant size and potential implications for U.S. defense production capabilities.
Concerns about the arms deal emerged after reports suggested President Donald Trump viewed it as a potential leverage point in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Further speculation arose when a senior U.S. defense official indicated that some weapons transfers were being reassessed to ensure the U.S. maintained sufficient military stockpiles.
Rubio underscored that the U.S. had previously approved an arms package valued at approximately $11 billion for Taiwan in December, the largest such sale in the nation’s history. He pointed out that China had strongly objected to this decision, responding with heightened military maneuvers near Taiwan. Despite this, Rubio reaffirmed that U.S. policy towards Taiwan remains unchanged and that decisions regarding arms sales to Taiwan are made independently of Beijing’s input.
The Secretary of State stressed the importance of maintaining stability and the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. He assured that the proposed $14 billion package is still under consideration, with no final decision having been made yet. The review signifies a continued commitment to due diligence in U.S. defense and foreign policy matters.