U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that a proposed $14 billion arms package for Taiwan is not on hold but is undergoing a standard review process. Speaking to the U.S. Senate, Rubio emphasized that describing the package as “paused” is incorrect, as the evaluation is necessary due to the scale of the deal and its implications for U.S. defense production capabilities.
Concerns about the arms package arose after President Donald Trump reportedly mentioned it as a possible bargaining chip in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The situation was further complicated by comments from a senior U.S. defense official who indicated that some weapon transfers are being reassessed to ensure that U.S. military stockpiles remain sufficient.
Rubio pointed out that the U.S. had approved an arms sale worth approximately $11 billion to Taiwan in December, marking the largest sale of its kind in U.S. history. This decision faced strong opposition from China, which responded by increasing its military activities near Taiwan.
The Secretary of State reaffirmed that U.S. policy towards Taiwan remains consistent and that Washington does not seek Beijing’s input when deciding on arms sales to Taiwan. He also underscored the importance of maintaining stability and the existing status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
As the $14 billion arms package continues to be reviewed, no final decision has been made, leaving the proposal still under consideration.