Story perspectives

Taiwan President Demands US Arms Sale, China Decries Separatist

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Lai Ching-te urged rapid approval of the pending U.S. arms sale while speaking in Taipei.
Lai said Taiwan’s democratic self-defence should not be portrayed as a provocation toward China.
U.S. President Donald Trump called the arms sale a potential negotiating chip after meeting Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.
Beijing labeled Lai a ‘separatist’ and rejected his dialogue proposals, prompting Lai to reaffirm Taiwan’s right to self-determination.

1 of 1

Story summary

President Lai Ching-te urged rapid approval of the pending U.S. arms sale while speaking in Taipei.
Lai said Taiwan’s democratic self-defence should not be portrayed as a provocation toward China.
U.S. President Donald Trump called the arms sale a potential negotiating chip after meeting Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.
Beijing labeled Lai a ‘separatist’ and rejected his dialogue proposals, prompting Lai to reaffirm Taiwan’s right to self-determination.