Biden Approves $567M in Defense Aid for Taiwan Amid Rising China Tensions

U.S. President Joe Biden has approved $567 million in defense support for Taiwan. This move strengthens Taiwan's military amid increasing tensions with China. The United States remains Taiwan's key international backer and arms supplier. China continues to oppose U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, which it claims as its territory.

U.S. President Joe Biden has sanctioned $567 million in defense support for Taiwan, according to a statement from the White House on Sunday. This is the latest American initiative to bolster Taiwan's military capability in response to escalating tensions with China.

The United States plays a crucial role as Taiwan's primary international supporter and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. China has persistently urged Washington to cease arms sales to Taipei, which it regards as a part of its territory. The White House disclosed that Biden had authorized the Secretary of State to manage the drawdown of defense articles and services, including military education and training, worth up to $567 million for Taiwan.

Details on the specified defense aid remain scarce. In April, Biden signed a comprehensive bill into law that allocates billions in fresh U.S. aid for the conflicts in Ukraine and support for Israel and Taiwan. Taiwan has raised concerns about delayed U.S. arms deliveries, such as upgraded F-14 fighter jets. China, seeing Taiwan as its own, has increased military and political pressure over the past five years to assert its claim, a stance fiercely rejected by Taipei.

(With inputs from agencies.)