US President Joe Biden has indicated that using American military force to defend Taiwan against a Chinese invasion remains an option. During an interview with Time magazine on May 28, Biden emphasized his commitment to Taiwan's defense, distinguishing between different types of military engagement, including ground, air, and naval forces.
Biden stated that he has made it clear to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US does not seek Taiwanese independence, maintaining the stance agreed upon with Beijing. However, he also highlighted ongoing US support for Taiwan's defense capabilities and consultations with regional allies.
Tensions between the US and China over Taiwan have been escalating. Although Biden and Xi have agreed to reduce tensions, recent events have exacerbated the situation. Taiwan's new President, Lai Ching-te, viewed by Beijing as a pro-independence "separatist," has further strained relations. Following Lai's inauguration on May 20, China conducted two days of military drills around Taiwan as a form of "punishment" for what it calls separatist activities.
In his inaugural speech, Lai urged Beijing to cease its intimidation tactics toward Taiwan. The US, while maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan, continues to supply the island with arms to bolster its self-defense.
Discussing China's economic state, Biden dismissed the notion of a booming Chinese economy, suggesting it is on shaky ground. He also criticized China's Belt and Road Initiative, calling it a "nuisance graveyard initiative."
Biden emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with European and Asian allies and developing nations to maintain US leadership globally. This sentiment was echoed in a trilateral meeting in Singapore on June 2, attended by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, Japan's Minister of Defense Kihara Minoru, and South Korea's Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik. The officials reiterated their nations' unchanged stance on Taiwan and called for peaceful resolutions to cross-strait issues.
In a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun, Austin expressed concerns about China's "provocative" military activities near Taiwan. This meeting marked the first in-person talks between US and Chinese defense chiefs since November 2022, held during the Shangri-La Dialogue.
Additionally, the US House Appropriations Committee has proposed a bill to provide $500 million in foreign military financing for Taiwan, aiming to strengthen deterrence across the Taiwan Strait. The Fiscal Year 2025 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Bill also includes provisions for up to $2 billion in loans and loan guarantees for Taiwan's defense.
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