TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Forbes magazine urged President Donald Trump to approve a US$14 billion (NT$441.63 billion) arms sale package for Taiwan without further delay, CNA reported Tuesday.
In an article titled “Helping Taiwan Helps The U.S.,” Forbes Media Chair Steve Forbes said the sale would strengthen Taiwan’s security and serve US interests. He warned that further delays could weaken US credibility and make support for Taiwan appear to be a bargaining chip in talks with Beijing.
The arms package cleared an initial congressional review in January. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently said it remained under government review.
The package includes anti-ship missiles and ammunition needed for Taiwan’s defense plans, the article said. The weapons would help Taiwan make a Chinese attack more difficult and costly.
China has continued to increase military pressure on Taiwan, Forbes said. He warned that each month of delay could create further gaps in Taiwan’s defense preparations.
Previous US administrations, including Trump’s first, kept Taiwan arms sales separate from broader relations with China, the article said. Using the package in trade talks or diplomatic negotiations could encourage Beijing to pressure Washington over future arms sales.
Forbes also said approving the sale would demonstrate firm US support ahead of Taiwan’s 2028 presidential election. It would reassure Taiwan and other countries in the region that Washington’s policy remained steady despite changes in US-China relations.
