TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday voiced support for Taiwan and said Congress would firmly oppose any attempt by China to seize it by force.
After US President Donald Trump said he was still considering a US$14 billion (NT$442.57 billion) arms sale to Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Sunday that arms sales are key to maintaining regional peace and stability, per CNA.
Responding on “Fox News Sunday,” Johnson told host Shannon Bream, “We've been wary of China’s objectives there for quite some time."
Johnson said the US military, successive presidents, and Congress have closely monitored the situation for years. Referring to Lai’s remarks, he said Taiwan’s leader had made “a reasonable” statement.
He added that Taiwan “has got to flex their muscle a little bit” and reaffirm that it is an independent country that “must remain so.” Johnson said preserving Taiwan’s status aligns with the interests of “all freedom-loving people around the world.”
The House speaker also warned that “China cannot just go take over land.” He added that the US would remain “strong and resolute” on the issue and said Congress would do the same.
