Biden approves $567M in defense support for Taiwan, White House says

President Joe Biden approved $567 million in defense support for Taiwan on Sunday, as tensions with China continue to rise. The United States remains Taiwan’s most important international backer and arms supplier, despite not having formal diplomatic ties. China has demanded that the US stop selling weapons to Taipei, which it considers its territory.

In a statement, the White House announced that Biden had authorized the Secretary of State to direct the drawdown of defense articles and services, as well as military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan. The specific details of the support were not disclosed.

This decision comes after Biden signed a bill into law in April, providing billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Taiwan has expressed frustration over delayed arms deliveries, including upgrades for F-14 fighter jets.

China has been increasing military and political pressure on Taiwan, which it sees as part of its territory. Taipei strongly rejects these claims. The US’s support for Taiwan is seen as a strategic move to counter China’s influence in the region.