The Diplomat | Brian Hioe
Taiwan breathed a sigh of relief following the May 13-15 summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, as initial fears of a "grand bargain" that would compromise Taiwan's security did not materialize. Prior to the summit, concerns were high that Trump might negotiate U.S. arms sales to Taiwan with Beijing, potentially violating the long-standing Six Assurances, or adopt a stance against Taiwanese independence. The Trump administration had notably stalled a $14 billion arms package for Taiwan, prompting bipartisan calls from U.S. senators for its approval. Additionally, there were apprehensions that Kuomintang (KMT) chair Cheng Li-wun's planned visit to the U.S. could lead to reduced American commitments to Taiwan. However, the summit concluded without any new deals announced regarding Taiwan, and the U.S. and Chinese readouts even diverged on the issue, indicating no explicit concessions. Despite the immediate relief, Taiwan remains awaiting Trump's approval of the delayed arms package, highlighting ongoing strategic uncertainties in cross-strait relations.
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