Recent discourse surrounding US foreign policy has reignited fears of a potential "Taiwan abandonment" scenario, particularly in light of shifting political dynamics in Washington.

Articles like "The Taiwan Fixation" reflect a growing skepticism about the US’ commitments, portraying Taiwan as a liability rather than a strategic partner. This narrative, whether accurate or not, demands a response — not with alarmism, but through clear, strategic action by Taiwan.

The rise of "abandonment discourse" in Washington is not entirely new, but recent geopolitical developments have made it more pressing. The Trump administration’s wavering support for Ukraine and the prioritization of domestic over international commitments have all contributed to perceptions the US may be unwilling to risk conflict with China over Taiwan. 

This view, however, ignores the deep strategic, economic, and ideological stakes the US has in Taiwan’s continued security and autonomy. Rather than viewing abandonment as a foregone conclusion, Taiwan must treat it as a strategic possibility that can be mitigated through proactive diplomacy, military preparedness, and economic resilience.

Taiwan’s response to the increasing prevalence of abandonment narratives should focus on three key areas:

1. Shaping US policy through proactive diplomacy

• Taiwan must not passively await US decisions but actively engage in shaping them. This means deepening bipartisan ties in Washington, ensuring that Taiwan policy remains a strategic consensus. The recent announcement of NT$3.29 trillion (US$100 billion) from TSMC for US expansion should mitigate short-term uncertainty in US-Taiwan relations.
• Taiwan’s engagement with Congress, think tanks, and media must be relentless, framing Taiwan not as a burden but as a valuable partner in Indo-Pacific security and technological resilience.
• Highlighting Taiwan’s strategic value beyond defense — such as its role in semiconductors, global supply chains, and critical technology development — ensures that Taiwan remains indispensable to US interests.

2. Enhancing asymmetric defense and self-reliance

• The belief that Taiwan’s security is solely dependent on US intervention is flawed. Taiwan must continue investing in asymmetric warfare capabilities, drone technology, cyber defense, and other cost-effective deterrents.
• Strengthening its civil defense network and reservist training ensures that Taiwan is not seen as an easy target for China.
• Deepening regional security ties beyond the US, including closer defense cooperation with Japan, Australia, and the Philippines, creates a multi-layered deterrence network.

3. Expanding economic and technological leverage

• Taiwan’s greatest non-military asset is its technological dominance, particularly in semiconductors. Rather than allowing itself to be viewed as a bargaining chip, Taiwan must leverage its economic indispensability to ensure sustained international support.
• Strengthening economic ties with the EU, Japan, and India ensures that Taiwan’s future is not solely tied to Washington’s calculus.
• Proactively engaging in global trade frameworks, rather than remaining isolated, enhances Taiwan’s global economic footprint.

Beyond responding directly to the abandonment discourse, Taiwan should reframe the conversation by emphasizing the immense strategic and economic benefits of a stronger US-Taiwan partnership. If the US treats Taiwan as an indispensable asset, the benefits greatly outweigh the costs, not just for the US but for the world.

A deeper US commitment to Taiwan would reinforce its credibility. A robust Taiwan strategy would solidify support for the US in both Asia and NATO, signaling to China that unilateral expansion will not be tolerated.

It would also strengthen the global economy. Taiwan’s chip dominance provides an opportunity for the US to build a secure, high-tech supply chain, reducing dependence on China and enhancing US technological leadership.

A comprehensive US commitment would also bolster Indo-Pacific security. A stable Taiwan deters regional conflict, preventing a security vacuum that could otherwise push Japan, South Korea, and others toward nuclear options to counterbalance a diminished US presence.

Taiwan must make it clear that its survival is not just about deterring China but about reinforcing a secure and innovation-driven US and global community. 

While abandonment narratives will continue to surface in Washington’s foreign policy discourse, Taiwan cannot afford to be a passive participant in its own fate. By reinforcing its strategic, economic, and military standing, Taiwan can ensure that its future remains secure, regardless of political shifts in the US.

The message is clear, Taiwan is not merely seeking protection. It is offering the world a strategic, economic, and ideological bulwark, which is an indispensable asset for the US. 

The US should not be asking if Taiwan is worth defending, it should be asking if it can afford not to.