President-elect Donald Trump is once again putting American interests first, signaling a sharp and necessary departure from the timid diplomatic traditions that have allowed Beijing to dictate terms to the United States for decades.
Trump confirmed he intends to speak directly with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, a move that rightfully prioritizes our relationship with a democratic partner over the demands of the Chinese Communist Party.
This comes as the administration weighs a critical $14 billion arms sale, which would provide Taiwan with essential anti-drone and air-defense systems to deter potential aggression.
While Beijing continues its predictable campaign of intimidation, demanding that the U.S. cease support for the self-governed island, Trump is showing that he will not be bullied by threats of 'conflict.' The Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 explicitly mandates that the U.S. provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, a responsibility that has been neglected by those too afraid to offend the regime in Beijing.
By engaging directly with President Lai, Trump is reinforcing the reality that American foreign policy is determined in Washington, not in the halls of the Chinese foreign ministry.
As Taiwan ramps up its own defense spending to counter growing military pressure, the President-elect’s willingness to engage directly proves that the era of seeking permission from our adversaries is over.
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