US Warns Taiwan Over Defence Delay
The United States has raised concern over Taiwan’s delay in approving full defence spending, calling further postponement a concession to China. The warning came after Taiwan’s opposition-controlled parliament approved only part of a special defence budget proposed by President Lai Ching-te.
Taiwan Defence Budget Faces Delay
President Lai had sought nearly $40 billion in supplementary defence spending to strengthen Taiwan’s military readiness against China. However, parliament approved only around two-thirds of the proposed package after repeated delays and political objections.
US Calls Delay Concession To China
The U.S. State Department said it welcomed the passage of part of the defence budget but warned that any further delay in funding the remaining capabilities would benefit the Chinese Communist Party. Washington has been urging Taiwan to increase defence preparedness as Beijing steps up military pressure.
Taiwan Weapons Projects Excluded
The approved package covers some U.S. weapons purchases, including systems such as HIMARS. However, several domestic projects were excluded, including drones, sea attack systems and the Chiang Kung anti-ballistic missile, which is linked to Taiwan’s planned T-Dome air defence system.
China Pressure Drives Taiwan Defence Push
Taiwan’s defence ministry warned that the excluded projects could create capability gaps and weaken air defence readiness. Lai said the approved funding was only a first step and warned that delays would increase shared security risks for Taiwan’s people.
