President Donald Trump declined to clarify the United States’ stance on defending Taiwan if attacked by China, offering no direct response during a pointed exchange with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a two-day summit in Beijing.
When pressed by Xi on the matter, Trump deflected, telling reporters aboard Air Force One, ‘That question was asked to me today by President Xi. I said I don’t talk about that.’
The Taiwan issue dominated discussions between the two leaders, with Xi emphasizing its paramount importance. ‘The Taiwan question is the most important issue in China-US relations,’ Xi stated, warning that mishandling the situation could lead to severe consequences. He cautioned Trump that the two nations ‘could collide or even come into conflict’ if the matter is not addressed carefully, according to Chinese state media outlet Xinhua.
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Trump, maintaining his ambiguity, told reporters he has ‘made no commitment either way’ on Taiwan’s defense. He further underscored his guarded approach by saying, ‘I don’t want to say that. There’s only one person that knows that. You know who it is? Me.’
Despite the tension, Trump expressed optimism about avoiding conflict, noting, ‘No, I don’t think so. I think we’ll be fine. [Xi] doesn’t want to see a war.’
Adding to the uncertainty, Trump revealed plans to decide on a previously announced $11 billion weapons package to Taiwan, which includes advanced rocket launchers and missiles, within a ‘fairly short period.’ He also intends to speak with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te before finalizing any decisions on the arms sale, a move that could further strain ties with Beijing given Xi’s strong opposition to any push for Taiwanese independence.
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, monitoring the summit, stressed his country’s role in maintaining regional calm, describing Taiwan as a ‘guardian of peace and stability.’ He criticized China for heightening risks through ‘aggressive military actions and authoritarian oppression,’ while affirming ongoing communication with the U.S. to preserve stable bilateral ties.
The high-stakes dialogue in Beijing highlighted the fragility of U.S.-China relations, with Xi warning that mishandling Taiwan could jeopardize the entire relationship between the two powers. Trump, while acknowledging Xi’s firm stance on preventing independence movements, reiterated to Fox News his opposition to Taiwan declaring independence, favoring the existing cross-strait status quo.
As decisions loom on the arms package and broader policy, the outcome of these talks could reshape regional dynamics. With an $11 billion deal hanging in the balance, the next steps from Washington will carry weight far beyond the summit’s closed doors.
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