Taiwan declares itself 'sovereign and independent' after Trump questions US defense commitment — comments come after Trump said he opposes Taiwan independence
Taiwan's foreign ministry declared the island a 'sovereign and independent democratic nation' following comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who questioned the U.S. defense commitment to Taiwan and called a $14 billion arms package a 'negotiating chip.' Trump's remarks, made during a visit to Beijing, contrasted with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's reaffirmation of unchanged U.S. policy and warnings against Chinese military action. The statements come amid tensions over Taiwan's semiconductor industry and its strategic importance in U.S.-China relations.
- ▪Taiwan's foreign ministry stated the island is 'sovereign and independent' and not subordinate to the People's Republic of China.
- ▪President Donald Trump said he opposes Taiwan independence, called a $14 billion arms sale a 'negotiating chip,' and questioned U.S. involvement in a potential conflict.
- ▪Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that U.S. policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged and warned of global repercussions if China uses force.
- ▪Taiwan has committed $500 billion to U.S. semiconductor investment, with TSMC pledging $165 billion for expansion in Arizona.
- ▪Taiwan's parliament approved a $25 billion defense budget, including funding for a U.S. arms package pending final approval.
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Tech Industry Taiwan declares itself 'sovereign and independent' after Trump questions US defense commitment — comments come after Trump said he opposes Taiwan independence News By Luke James published 17 May 2026 The president repeated his demand to move chip production to the U.S. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Getty Images / NurPhoto) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Taiwan's foreign ministry declared the island a "sovereign and independent democratic nation" on Saturday, stating that it is "not subordinate to the People's Republic of China.”…
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