Wednesday Briefing: Taiwan Considers a Changed U.S.
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Taiwan watches as Trump turns on Ukraine
Taiwan could be forced to consider its political future as President Trump turns against Ukraine and abandons Western efforts to punish Russia. Ukraine and Taiwan share a kinship: small democracies laid claim to by hulking, authoritarian neighbors.
President Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s president, has already been trying to prevent any serious breach with Trump. This month, he announced that the country would increase military spending. He also said the island — which has more semiconductor fabrication plants than any other place in the world — would come up with proposals in response to Trump’s demand that more such plants be built in the U.S.
As China continues to send fighter jets and warships nearly every day to probe Taiwan’s defenses, the island’s ability to deter a potential attack hinges on whether the U.S. stands ready to help and even send forces.
Diplomacy: Trump doesn’t appear to have a strong commitment to Taiwanese democracy. Some fear he might put Taiwan’s interests at risk if he negotiates a big trade deal with Beijing. Xi Jinping, China’s leader, has told Trump that Taiwan is a key concern in their relationship.