What's happened
Taiwan is reportedly seeking to procure up to $15 billion in advanced weapons from the U.S. under president-elect Donald Trump. The proposed package includes F-35 fighter jets, E-2D Hawkeye aircraft, Aegis-equipped warships, and Patriot missiles, amid rising tensions with China.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post reports that Taiwan is considering a substantial arms package to demonstrate its commitment to self-defense, citing unnamed sources. Meanwhile, Business Insider UK highlights that informal discussions have begun with Trump's team, although Taiwan's government has denied any new negotiations. The New York Times notes that Taiwan is adopting a more cautious approach to its relationship with Trump, reflecting anxiety over his transactional diplomacy and comments about Taiwan's semiconductor industry. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the complexities of Taiwan's defense strategy amid rising tensions with China.
How we got here
Taiwan's defense strategy has been under scrutiny as China increases military pressure. Trump's previous administration approved significant arms sales to Taiwan, and his recent comments have reignited discussions about Taiwan's military spending and procurement needs.
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