In a Time magazine interview, US President Joe Biden did not dismiss the use of American military force to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. Biden clarified his stance on Taiwan’s defense, distinguishing between different military deployments, as reported by ANI. “Not ruling out using US military force. There’s a distinction between deploying on the ground, air power and naval power,” he stated in the White House interview on May 28. Biden also communicated to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the US does not pursue Taiwan’s independence but will continue to support Taiwan’s defense. “If China tries to change the status quo unilaterally, we’re continuing to supply capacity [to Taiwan],” he emphasized, noting consultations with regional allies.
Asked if the US military would launch strikes from bases in Japan or the Philippines in case of conflict, Biden replied, “I can’t get into that. You would then criticise me with good reason if I were to tell you.” The Time article included remarks from CIA Director William Burns, who said Xi instructed his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027. Despite Biden and Xi’s recent attempts to ease tensions, US-China relations remain strained over Taiwan.
Beijing’s perception of Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te, as a “separatist” has increased tensions. Following Lai’s inauguration on May 20, China conducted military drills around Taiwan, calling them a response to separatist actions. Lai’s call for Beijing to stop intimidating Taiwan in his inaugural speech heightened the friction. The US, maintaining unofficial ties with Taiwan, continues to supply arms for the island’s defense. Biden also criticized China’s Belt and Road Initiative, labeling it a “nuisance graveyard initiative.” He stressed the importance of boosting cooperation with European and Asian allies and enhancing relations with developing countries to maintain US global leadership.
A trilateral meeting in Singapore on June 2, with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, Japan’s Minister of Defense Kihara Minoru, and South Korea’s Minister of National Defence Shin Won-sik, reaffirmed the need for a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan issue. They emphasized that regional peace is essential for international security. Austin also met with his Chinese counterpart, Dong Jun, to discuss concerns over China’s provocative military activities near Taiwan. Meanwhile, the US House Appropriations Committee has proposed a bill to provide USD 500 million in military financing for Taiwan, along with up to USD 2 billion in loans, to strengthen deterrence across the Taiwan Strait.
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