Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump Departs Beijing, Taiwan $14 B Arms Deal Uncertain

5/16/2026

35 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump left Beijing without committing to the $14 billion Taiwan weapons deal, leaving it in limbo.
President Donald Trump told reporters on Air Force One he has not decided whether to approve the pending arms package.
Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi said U.S. arms sales required by the Taiwan Relations Act are a cornerstone of peace, a view China’s Taiwan Affairs Office rejects as a violation of core interests.

History

Historical Context

On April 10 1979 the United States enacted the Taiwan Relations Act, allowing Washington to maintain unofficial ties and supply defensive weapons to Taiwan after shifting diplomatic recognition to the People’s Republic of China. The law created a precedent of congressional-backed arms sales, a pattern echoed today as President Donald Trump weighs a multi-billion-dollar package while Beijing protests perceived violations.

1 of 2

Story summary

President Donald Trump left Beijing without committing to the $14 billion Taiwan weapons deal, leaving it in limbo.
President Donald Trump told reporters on Air Force One he has not decided whether to approve the pending arms package.
Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi said U.S. arms sales required by the Taiwan Relations Act are a cornerstone of peace, a view China’s Taiwan Affairs Office rejects as a violation of core interests.

1 / 2