US President Donald Trump has said he plans to speak with Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te regarding a possible American arms sale to Taiwan. The move could break long standing diplomatic practice between Washington and Taipei.
The United States has not officially communicated directly with a Taiwanese president since 1979. That was the year Washington ended formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan and recognized the government in Beijing instead.
Trump made the comments while discussing a proposed weapons package reportedly worth $14 billion. The package may include anti drone technology and advanced air defense missile systems for Taiwan.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he would talk to Lai before making a final decision on the deal. He added that he speaks with many world leaders and wants to work on what he called the “Taiwan problem.”
China Strongly Opposes US Taiwan Contact
China reacted quickly to Trump’s statement. A spokesperson from China’s foreign ministry said Beijing firmly opposes official exchanges between the United States and Taiwan. The spokesperson also criticized possible American weapons sales to the island.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly warned against foreign involvement in Taiwan related matters. Beijing has also refused to rule out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.
Chinese officials urged the United States to stop sending what they described as “wrong signals” to groups supporting Taiwan’s independence.
Taiwan Remains a Major Issue Between US and China
Taiwan has remained one of the most sensitive topics in relations between the United States and China. During Trump’s recent visit to Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned that poor handling of the Taiwan issue could lead to conflict between the two global powers.
Trump, however, described his relationship with Xi as “amazing” following their two day summit in Beijing. He also said Xi feels very strongly about Taiwan, but confirmed that he made no commitments during the discussions.
Trump Previously Broke Protocol With Taiwan
This is not the first time Trump has challenged diplomatic norms regarding Taiwan. In 2016, shortly after winning the presidential election, he accepted a phone call from former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. The conversation angered Beijing and created tensions between China and the United States.
President Lai, who took office in 2024, has strongly supported improving Taiwan’s defense capabilities due to growing military pressure from China.
Under the Taiwan Relations Act passed in 1979, the United States can provide Taiwan with defensive weapons. This law continues to shape Washington’s unofficial relationship with Taiwan despite formal diplomatic ties with China.
Reports also suggest that Beijing is delaying a planned visit by senior Pentagon official Elbridge Colby until Trump decides whether to approve the proposed arms package.
