Taiwan Receives Long-Awaited US Weapons Amid Rising Tensions with China
After facing delays for the past two years, Taiwan has finally received the weapons it ordered from the United States, including Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. This development comes at a crucial time as tensions between Taiwan and China continue to escalate.
A senior US lawmaker, Michael McCaul, who visited Taipei recently, emphasized the importance of boosting Taiwan’s deterrence capabilities in the face of China’s aggressive actions. China considers Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. However, Taiwan’s government firmly rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
McCaul highlighted the significance of delivering the promised weapons to Taiwan, stating that they are essential for deterring any potential invasion by China. He stressed the need for Taiwan to have sufficient weapons to demonstrate to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the risks of attacking the island far outweigh the rewards.
In addition to the weapons already delivered, McCaul suggested that Taiwan focus on acquiring maritime weapons like Harpoon anti-ship missiles to further bolster its defense capabilities. He also reassured Taiwan of continued US support, regardless of the outcome of the US presidential election.
As tensions between Taiwan and China continue to rise, Taiwan remains vigilant against Chinese military activities near its borders. China’s recent military exercises near Nanji island and to the north of Taiwan have further heightened concerns about a potential conflict.
The delivery of US weapons to Taiwan underscores the island’s commitment to defending its sovereignty against Chinese aggression, with the support of key allies like the United States.