Taiwan says US policy unchanged as $14B arms package stalls

Taiwan says the United States has repeatedly assured it that Washington’s policy toward the island has not changed, even as a proposed $14 billion arms package remains on hold. Taiwanese officials say the two sides are continuing discussions, but the package has not received approval, leaving its timing and eventual status unresolved. Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Mingchi said the United States understands Taiwan’s defense needs and its determination to invest in its military. Chen said Taiwan remains in regular contact with Washington after the recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. His comments followed Trump’s decision to keep the proposed arms package in abeyance. Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo said Tuesday that Taipei had repeatedly received explanations from U.S. officials that policy toward Taiwan had not changed. Koo said Taiwan had not been notified of any changes to ongoing arms sales, and that each case involved continued discussions and cooperation. The package is separate from weapons Taiwan has already ordered but has not yet received. Among those delayed deliveries is a 2019 order for 66 F-16V fighters.