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Taiwan Excluded from U.S. Defense Strategy, Sparks Debate

1/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Taiwan is excluded from the U.S. 2026 National Defence Strategy, prompting debate over Washington's commitment to the island as it shifts focus toward Beijing.
Lai Shyh-bao, a legislator from the opposition Kuomintang, says the new strategy prioritizes military communication with China and omits Taiwan's security concerns.
He argues the omission reflects U.S. President Donald Trump’s preference for a cooperative relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping over Taiwan's defense needs.

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Story summary

Taiwan is excluded from the U.S. 2026 National Defence Strategy, prompting debate over Washington's commitment to the island as it shifts focus toward Beijing.
Lai Shyh-bao, a legislator from the opposition Kuomintang, says the new strategy prioritizes military communication with China and omits Taiwan's security concerns.
He argues the omission reflects U.S. President Donald Trump’s preference for a cooperative relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping over Taiwan's defense needs.