U.S. Lawmakers Urge Increased Defense Spending for Taiwan
A bipartisan group of senior lawmakers in the United States is urging Taiwan to significantly boost its defense budget. They warn that ongoing political gridlock in Taipei could weaken deterrence as China increases military pressure in the region.
Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware), along with Representatives Young Kim (R-California) and Ami Bera (D-California), sent a letter to the leadership of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan. In this communication—signed by 34 members—they expressed “serious concerns” that the proposed special defense budget may not be adequately funded.
“We hope you will support a strong, multi-year special defense budget… that responds appropriately to this moment and sends a clear signal of Taiwan’s intent to defend itself,” the legislators noted.
This warning coincides with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-de’s push for an extensive multi-year defense initiative to enhance the island’s capabilities—particularly concerning asymmetric warfare. This plan involves improving missile systems, air defenses, drones, and reserve training intended to make any potential invasion or blockade by China significantly more challenging.
Nonetheless, the proposal is caught in a heated domestic political struggle. Opposition parties controlling Taiwan’s legislature are hesitating to approve the full special defense budget, demanding amendments and greater oversight. This ongoing standoff has raised alarms in Washington, as delays might diminish Taiwan’s readiness to respond to Beijing’s increasing military operations nearby.
Recently, the People’s Liberation Army has held large-scale drills simulating siege and blockade scenarios around Taiwan. Chinese aircraft frequently cross the median line of the Taiwan Strait and enter the island’s air defense zone, while Chinese vessels have ramped up their operations in adjacent waters.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has consistently left open the option of using force to bring Taiwan under Beijing’s control. The U.S. lawmakers mentioned that “the People’s Republic of China’s threat to Taiwan has never been greater,” highlighting the increased military activities and coercive measures aimed at weakening Taiwan’s resolve.
The letter also pointed out Washington’s growing frustration with delays in military assistance to Taiwan, calling attention to a “huge backlog” in approved arms sales.
In their message, the lawmakers emphasized, “The United States must address the enormous backlog of arms deliveries to Taiwan.” They reassured Taiwan of their commitment to expedite assistance while also urging cooperation from Taiwan.
According to the Taiwan Relations Act, the U.S. aims to provide defensive systems to Taiwan while adhering to a policy of “strategic ambiguity” about direct military involvement in conflicts.
The ongoing budget discussions in Taipei hold significant geopolitical weight. Proponents of Lai’s initiative argue that insufficient funding could send the wrong message to Beijing regarding Taiwan’s determination. Critics, however, insist that defense expenditures should undergo careful evaluation and consideration alongside domestic priorities.
As China persists with major military exercises around Taiwan, U.S. lawmakers feel a pressing need for action.
“Both the United States and Taiwan must do more to deter Chinese aggression,” the letter concluded.
The outcome of Taiwan’s divided legislature regarding the requested funding could greatly affect not only cross-Strait relations but also Washington’s confidence in Taiwan’s long-term defense strategy.
