Taiwan Says US Arms Sales Continue Despite $14 Billion Package Stall

Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo said Taipei remains in discussions with US officials over individual arms deals and has received no notice of any change in Washington’s policy towards the island. He also said existing defence cooperation continues as planned.

Koo said 66 advanced F-16V fighter jets had reached a production stage where they were ready for delivery. The aircraft programme had faced delays linked to the pandemic and production issues, with deliveries originally expected in 2024.

The comments come after the United States paused a proposed $14 billion arms package following a May meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. China has repeatedly urged Washington to halt weapons sales to Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory.

The US does not formally recognise Taiwan as an independent country but maintains extensive unofficial relations with Taipei and is legally committed to supporting its ability to defend itself. Taiwan says its military purchases are intended to strengthen its defence capabilities amid regular Chinese military activity around the island.

Analysts quoted by local media said they expect US arms sales to Taiwan to continue, although the larger package could remain delayed in the short term. Tamkang University professor Ma Chun-wei noted that upcoming US-China meetings could temporarily push the Taiwan issue into the background.

For now, Taiwan says there has been no change to existing US arms sales or defence cooperation, while the proposed $14 billion package remains on hold.