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Taiwan Boosts Defense Spending Amid U.S. Arms Sales Delay

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Four additional United States arms sales remain pending notification to Congress, following December's record $11 billion package.
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te unveiled a $40 billion defense spending increase through 2033 to counter China's threats.
The opposition has stalled the measure, demanding clearer details.
Hsu Szu-chien, Taiwan's Vice Defence Minister, emphasised transparency and that only the island's people can determine their future.

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Story summary

Four additional United States arms sales remain pending notification to Congress, following December's record $11 billion package.
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te unveiled a $40 billion defense spending increase through 2033 to counter China's threats.
The opposition has stalled the measure, demanding clearer details.
Hsu Szu-chien, Taiwan's Vice Defence Minister, emphasised transparency and that only the island's people can determine their future.