Taiwan Eyes Trump-Xi Meetings with Caution
KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan: As President Donald Trump prepares for meetings with Xi Jinping, the leader of China, many in Taiwan are anxiously watching. People, from officials in the presidential office to military leaders and business executives, are wondering whether Trump will approach China strongly or if it will leave Taiwan vulnerable.
For decades, Taiwan has faced threats from the Chinese government, which claims the island as its own territory despite never having ruled it.
Experts believe Xi might try to strike a deal with Trump, potentially offering cooperation on various issues like tariffs and U.S. business access in exchange for a greater Chinese influence on Taiwan’s future.
Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Francois Wu, expressed concerns: “What we fear the most is putting Taiwan on the negotiating table between Xi and Trump.”
Professor Huang Kwei-bo from National Chengchi University warned Taiwan should not assume that it will remain unaffected by U.S.-China discussions. He stressed that an understanding could occur, possibly resulting in the U.S. less actively supporting Taiwan.
Trump recently acknowledged China’s opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, indicating this would be a topic of discussion.
In the past week, China has increased pressure on Taiwan, sending over 50 military aircraft into Taiwan’s air defense zone, and many see this as a new normal—a constant reminder to keep Taiwan’s military alert.
Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, crucial for advanced technology including smartphones and military hardware, has intensified concerns in the U.S. Any conflict that disrupts Taiwan’s access to global markets could have significant repercussions for American industries.
Despite the heightened tensions, daily life in Taiwan goes on. Audrey Chiang, a local shop owner, shared, “Most people here are not obsessed with China daily. We have our own worries, but we know things can change quickly.”
In a recent move, Taiwan’s legislature approved nearly $25 billion for defense, although it fell short of the almost $40 billion requested by President Lai Ching-te. Many in Taiwan still believe in U.S. and Japanese support in potential conflicts, but experts remind that Taiwan must show it is ready to defend itself.
China’s officials continue to push the narrative that Taiwan’s status is an internal issue. In contrast, most Taiwanese strongly believe that their future should be determined by themselves.
Professor Paul Lee noted that Xi Jinping will likely push Trump to change the wording of U.S. support for Taiwan, seeking a clear statement against Taiwan’s independence to strengthen China’s position.
China has been patient, waiting for a moment like this one, as various global issues unfold. Taiwan’s government and scholars will closely analyze the outcomes of Trump and Xi’s discussions, fearing that any agreement could reshape their future.
