Taiwan Arms Deliveries Face Delays Amid US-China Summit

Taiwan is watching U.S.-China talks closely, concerned Beijing may use the relationship to constrain U.S. arms sales, while maintaining contact with Washington and preparing for possible effects on its security and economy. President Donald Trump has put a proposed $14 billion arms package on hold, calling it a negotiating chip with China, even as Taiwanese officials say U.S. support for the island’s self-defense has been reaffirmed and they expect procurement discussions to continue. Analysts note that Taiwan’s importance to U.S. technology supply chains and Washington’s interest in limiting China’s influence give the United States reasons to sustain support, though the U.S. has no formal commitment to defend Taiwan militarily. Separately, Taiwan’s purchase of 66 new F-16s has faced substantial delays: the first two aircraft departed the U.S. in 2026 but were called back to Hawaii, with no public explanation, reinforcing concerns about broader delivery delays. Taiwan is also developing domestic military capabilities as it seeks to strengthen its defenses.