Trump hinted at selling arms to China during a conversation with Chinese President Xi, raising concerns about U.S. policy toward Taiwan and potential military implications. The potential sale could disrupt decades of U.S. policy and expose American technology to a rival nation.
U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue reported that President Trump discussed the possibility of selling U.S. arms to China, suggesting it as a 'very good negotiating chip' with Beijing. Perdue also stated that Trump has been 'as strong on Taiwan as I've ever seen anybody' and has provided the island with numerous weapons.
The U.S. is bound by law to support Taiwan's defense, despite not recognizing it as a country. China has previously pressed Washington to halt arms sales, with Trump previously using Taiwan arms as a bargaining chip during a 2023 summit. The White House has not yet clarified whether it would commit military force to defend Taiwan in the event of an invasion.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun did not confirm Perdue's remarks, stating that China has always strengthened its national defense based on its needs and is committed to maintaining world peace and stability.