Taiwan has reaffirmed that it is already a sovereign and independent nation after US President Donald Trump warned against any formal declaration of independence from China.
Trump made the remarks following a two-day summit in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where tensions surrounding Taiwan were a major topic of discussion. Speaking after the meeting, Trump said the United States had “made no commitment either way” regarding the island’s future status.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it could use force if necessary to bring the island under Beijing’s control. Meanwhile, Taiwan operates as a self-governing democracy with its own government, military, and constitution.
Trump also revealed that he would soon decide whether to approve an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan. Under US law, Washington is required to provide Taiwan with defensive support, despite maintaining official diplomatic relations with Beijing.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has previously stated that Taiwan does not need to formally declare independence because it already considers itself an independent nation.
On Saturday, presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo described Taiwan’s sovereignty as “self-evident,” calling the island “a sovereign, independent democratic country.” However, she emphasized that Taiwan remains committed to maintaining the current status quo with China, meaning it neither formally declares independence nor seeks unification with Beijing.
Most people in Taiwan identify themselves as separate from China, although many support maintaining the existing political situation to avoid military conflict.
In an interview with Fox News after his talks with Xi, Trump stressed that US policy on Taiwan had not changed and said he wanted to avoid confrontation with China.
“I’m not looking to have somebody go independent,” Trump said. “I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down.”
Trump also stated that he and Xi discussed Taiwan extensively during the summit, though he declined to say whether the United States would militarily defend the island in the event of a conflict.
Beijing has sharply criticized President Lai in recent years, labeling him a “troublemaker” and accusing him of threatening peace across the Taiwan Strait. China has also increased military exercises around Taiwan, heightening regional tensions.
Trump said the proposed weapons package would be discussed directly with Taiwan’s leadership, though the United States does not maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Direct communication between US presidents and Taiwan’s leader is considered highly sensitive and could provoke strong reactions from Beijing.
Taiwan’s government thanked Trump for his continued support for stability in the Taiwan Strait and pledged to strengthen cooperation with the United States to preserve regional peace and security.