In recent remarks, US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about the likelihood of China invading Taiwan, indicating a strong sense of confidence in his relationship with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This comes ahead of their anticipated meeting later this month during an Asia-Pacific summit in South Korea.
Responding to a Pentagon assessment that suggested Xi might be considering a move on Taiwan by 2027, Trump told reporters, “I think we’ll be just fine with China. China doesn’t want to do that.” He acknowledged that while Taiwan might be a significant interest for Xi, he does not foresee immediate actions being taken. “Now that doesn’t mean it’s not the apple of his eye, because probably it is, but I don’t see anything happening,” Trump said.
Meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Trump emphasized the strength of the US military, stating that China is aware of its capabilities. He asserted, “We have the best of everything, and nobody’s going to mess with that. And I don’t see that at all with President Xi.” The President highlighted his belief that the US would maintain a positive relationship with China regarding Taiwan and other matters.
As he prepares for his first meeting with Xi since beginning his second term, Trump underscored the priority of achieving “a fair” trade deal with China, although he sidestepped questions about whether he would compromise US support for Taiwan to reach that goal. “I want to be good to China. I love my relationship with President Xi. We have a great relationship,” he stated.
The dynamics between the US and Taiwan are nuanced; the US officially recognizes only Beijing and not Taiwan, which continues to operate as a self-governing democracy after the Chinese civil war in 1949. Under US law, the United States is obligated to provide Taiwan with defense resources but maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity concerning potential military intervention in the event of an aggressive stance from China.
In contrast, Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden, has indicated that he might be willing to order military action should China seek to assert control over Taiwan.
