Source: Fox News
Summary
A bipartisan group of US lawmakers has urged Taiwan to increase its defense spending, warning that political gridlock in Taipei could undermine deterrence as China escalates military pressure around the island. The lawmakers expressed concerns that a proposed special defense budget may only be partially funded, and urged Taiwan’s leaders to support a robust, multiyear defense package. Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, is pushing for a major defense package aimed at strengthening the island’s asymmetric warfare capabilities.
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As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
US lawmakers are once again calling for Taiwan to boost its defense spending, citing growing military pressure from China. The letter from 34 lawmakers to Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan expresses “serious concerns” that a proposed special defense budget may not be fully funded. The lawmakers are urging Taiwan’s leaders to support a robust, multiyear defense package, while also acknowledging delays in US weapons deliveries to Taiwan. The budget debate in Taipei has become entangled in a fierce domestic political battle, with opposition parties resisting fully approving the special defense budget.
The US lawmakers’ letter is a familiar refrain, with a sense of urgency that has become routine in the face of China’s growing military presence around Taiwan.
Author: Evan Null
