Trump-Taiwan Tensions Rise Ahead of Key Meeting with Xi Jinping

SEOUL, South Korea — Days before President Donald Trump’s meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, U.S.-Taiwan relations are under heightened scrutiny. As Trump prepares for their first in-person meeting since starting his second term, questions loom about Taiwan’s fate in U.S.-China trade negotiations.

“We’re going to be talking about a lot of things,” Trump said aboard Air Force One on Wednesday. “I assume that’s going to be one of the things, but I’m not going to talk about that now,” he added, responding to inquiries about potential trade concessions involving Taiwan.

While Trump has suggested that China won’t invade Taiwan during his presidency, experts remain skeptical about his commitment to Taiwan’s defense. “That idea of Trump selling out Taiwan gets most of its oxygen from Chinese Communist Party trial balloons,” said Matt Pottinger, former deputy national security advisor. “Trump understands the strategic nature of Taiwan.”

Although Taiwan is trying to maintain a positive outlook ahead of the meeting, a senior government official expressed cautious optimism. Taiwan is closely monitoring the discussions as it seeks to establish a stronger defense relationship with the U.S.

Trump’s approach has shifted since his first term, where he previously emphasized strong support for Taiwan. This second term, however, has seen a pause in new arms sales to the island, raising concerns among Taiwanese officials.

Henrietta Levin, from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that Taipei has found it “jarring” to feel uncertain about U.S. support. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has promised to increase defense spending significantly in the coming years, amidst fears of possible concessions to China.

Meanwhile, Taiwanese officials are exploring alternative diplomatic channels to engage with Trump’s administration, including targeting conservative media. Lai appeared on a radio show, praising Trump and even suggesting he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize if he can convince China to denounce the use of force against Taiwan.

As speculation about the upcoming Trump-Xi meeting grows, China remains focused on its goal of achieving “reunification” with Taiwan. Recent statements from Chinese officials emphasize economic integration with Taiwan as a means toward achieving this objective.

While tensions continue to escalate, Taiwan is actively reassessing its strategy and strengthening its relationships in Washington to ensure its security amid the complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations.