U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that the consideration of a proposed US$14 billion arms package for Taiwan is ongoing, dismissing any claims that the process has been halted. Rubio clarified before the U.S. Senate that the package is undergoing the standard administrative review and stressed that referring to it as “paused” is incorrect. The review is deemed essential due to the significant size of the package and its potential implications for the U.S. defense production capabilities.
The arms deal’s status came into question after reports suggested that President Donald Trump might use the package as leverage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Concerns were further fueled by comments from a senior U.S. defense official, indicating that some weapon transfers are being reconsidered to ensure U.S. military stockpiles remain sufficient.
Rubio pointed out that the U.S. previously approved an arms sale worth approximately US$11 billion for Taiwan in December, marking it as the largest in U.S. history. He acknowledged China’s strong opposition to this decision, which prompted China to escalate its military activities near Taiwan.
Reaffirming the United States’ stance, Rubio stated that the policy towards Taiwan has not changed, and decisions regarding arms sales to Taiwan are made independently of Beijing’s input. He underscored the U.S. commitment to maintaining stability and the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.
The proposed US$14 billion arms package for Taiwan remains under careful evaluation, and no definitive decision has been made at this stage.