President Donald Trump has reportedly declined to approve a $400 million military aid package for Taiwan, a move that could undermine the island's defense against China's growing threats, according to a Washington Post report published Thursday. The decision, made in recent months during sensitive trade negotiations with Beijing, marks a significant shift from longstanding U.S. support for the democratic island.

A White House official, speaking to the Post, indicated that the decision on the aid package remains pending, leaving room for uncertainty. The pause coincides with Trump's efforts to secure a trade compromise and a potential summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with a second phone call between the leaders scheduled for Friday. The discussions aim to address contentious issues, including tariffs and the fate of the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform TikTok.

The United States, despite formally recognizing China over Taiwan since the late 1970s, has consistently served as Taipei's primary military backer, supplying critical arms to counter the persistent threat of Chinese invasion. Under the Biden administration, Washington authorized over $2 billion in military aid to Taiwan, reinforcing its defensive capabilities. However, the Post noted Trump's reluctance to provide weapons without payment, a policy also evident in his approach to Ukraine.

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In August, U.S. and Taiwanese defense officials met in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss a potential arms sale package valued in the billions, including drones, missiles, and coastal monitoring sensors. These enhancements are vital for Taiwan, which faces escalating military pressures from China. Since Trump's return to the White House in January, anxieties in Taipei have grown over the resilience of U.S.-Taiwan relations and Washington's willingness to defend the island in the event of an attack.

Amid these concerns, Republican Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, visited Taiwan in late August to reaffirm U.S. support. Meeting with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, Wicker emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation, stating, "It is our determination and our intention that Taiwan remain free and make its own decisions." He underscored the need for enhanced military collaboration and efficient use of defense resources to safeguard Taiwan's autonomy.

Trump's decision to withhold aid, if finalized, could strain the U.S.-Taiwan partnership at a critical juncture, raising questions about America's strategic priorities as it navigates complex relations with both Taipei and Beijing.

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