Officials in Taiwan report they have not received any formal communication regarding delays to a massive $14 billion weapons agreement with the United States, despite recent testimony from Pentagon leadership suggesting such sales are on hold.
The clarification came Friday after acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao informed senators Thursday that foreign military sales are being temporarily suspended to guarantee sufficient ammunition supplies for the Iran conflict, which the current administration has dubbed ‘Epic Fury.’
Speaking to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, Cao explained the reasoning behind the delay. “Right now we’re doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for ‘Epic Fury,’” he stated. “Then the foreign military sales will continue when the administration deems necessary.”
Taiwanese presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo acknowledged Friday that officials are aware of the reports but emphasized no official word has arrived. “Currently there is no information regarding any adjustments the U.S. will make to this arms sale,” Kuo said when questioned about Cao’s remarks.
The weapons deals in question include an $11 billion package approved in December that remains stalled, plus a separate $14 billion sale authorized by Congress in January that awaits presidential submission before moving forward.
These developments come as tensions over Taiwan’s status continue to complicate U.S.-China relations. Beijing considers the island a breakaway province that must eventually come under Chinese control, using military force if needed. While Washington maintains no formal diplomatic recognition of Taiwan as an independent nation, America serves as the island’s primary military supporter and weapons provider.
The arms sales have become a contentious issue following recent diplomatic exchanges. In a Fox News interview after his Beijing visit, the president described Taiwan weapons deals as “a very good negotiating chip” in discussions with China.
During his second anniversary in office Wednesday, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te expressed hope for continued American military support, calling such purchases vital for maintaining peace in the region.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing’s position when asked about the Navy secretary’s comments, stating that “China’s opposition to the U.S. arms sale to China’s Taiwan region is consistent, clear-cut and resolute.”
The weapons issue gained additional prominence during last week’s presidential visit to Beijing, where Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a stern warning about Taiwan policy. Xi told his American counterpart that the “Taiwan question” represents the most critical aspect of bilateral relations and warned that mishandling could lead to “clashes and even conflicts.”
Following those discussions, the president indicated interest in speaking directly with Taiwan’s leader, though he avoided naming Lai specifically. Beijing has labeled Lai a separatist and would likely view any direct communication between the two leaders as a provocative act.
Spokesperson Kuo said Friday that no additional details are available regarding potential talks between Lai and the American president.
