U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that a proposed $14 billion arms deal with Taiwan is currently undergoing a standard administrative review, rather than being put on hold. Speaking before the U.S. Senate, Rubio emphasized that labeling the package as “paused” is incorrect. He explained that the review process is essential due to the package’s substantial size and its potential implications for U.S. defense production capabilities.
The arms package came under scrutiny after reports surfaced that President Donald Trump considered it as a possible bargaining chip in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Further concerns were fueled by comments from a senior U.S. defense official, who indicated that some weapons transfers might be reevaluated to ensure that U.S. military stockpiles remain sufficient.
Rubio pointed out that the U.S. had already approved a significant arms package for Taiwan valued at approximately $11 billion last December, marking it as the largest sale of its kind in U.S. history. This decision was met with strong opposition from China, which responded by increasing military activities near Taiwan. Nevertheless, the U.S. stance on Taiwan remains unchanged, and Rubio reiterated that decisions regarding arms sales to Taiwan are made independently, without consulting Beijing.
He also underscored the importance of maintaining stability and the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. While the proposed $14 billion arms deal is still under consideration, no final decision has been announced at this time.
