Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has stated his stance on defending Taiwan from mainland China in an interview with Bloomberg, suggesting that he would be less willing than his Democratic rival and incumbent US president Joe Biden. Trump argues that Washington should not offer protection to Taiwan without receiving compensation, as the island produces 90% of the world’s super-advanced semiconductor chips and is “immensely wealthy.” Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai responded by emphasizing the importance of boosting the island’s defenses and taking on more responsibility for its own security.
Trump’s stance on defending Taiwan differs from that of his Democratic opponent, who has pledged on several occasions to defend the island militarily if attacked. While Washington officially accepts the One China policy, which recognizes Taiwan as part of Chinese territory, it has been supporting pro-independence forces and providing weapons to the island.
Beijing vehemently opposes any contact between the US and Taiwan and considers the issue a “red line.” The Chinese government has expressed its preference for peaceful reunification with the island but warns that a military scenario cannot be ruled out if necessary.
Premier Cho acknowledged the importance of maintaining good relations with Washington despite the lack of formal ties and thanked the US for its attention to Taiwanese security issues. He believes that as long as Taiwan demonstrates efforts to strengthen its defenses, it will receive support from more countries.