diplomacyThursday, June 18, 20263 sources

Taiwan's President Hopes U.S. Arms Sale Package Approved Amid Escalating Tensions With China

Taiwan's President William Lai Ching-te expressed hope that a proposed $14 billion U.S. arms sale package would be approved, amid heightened military activity by China in the Western Pacific. The remarks came after former President Trump suggested using the arms package as leverage with Beijing. Lai reiterated his call for dialogue with China based on 'parity and respect.'

Taiwan's President William Lai Ching-te stated on June 18, 2026, that he hopes the U.S. arms sale package can be approved soon, as China's military continues to expand its presence in the Western Pacific. The remarks were made following comments from former President Trump, who suggested the package could be used as leverage in negotiations with Beijing. Lai emphasized the need for talks with China based on 'parity and respect,' a stance consistent with his previous diplomatic approach.

Timelines

Sources

IndependentAl JazeeraJun 18, 01:52 PM
Taiwan hopes US arms sale package can be approved soon, president says

Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te reiterates his desire for talks based on 'parity and respect' with China.

IndependentNew York TimesJun 18, 12:21 PM
Taiwan’s President Says He Trusts Trump to Approve Arms Sales

President Lai Ching-te made the hopeful remarks after Mr. Trump suggested that he could use a proposed $14 billion arms package for Taiwan as leverage with Beijing.

IndependentThe HinduJun 18, 10:05 AM
Taiwan not 'provoking' China, hopes new U.S. arms sale package can be approved soon, President says

China's military is extending into the Western Pacific, and its various forms of coercion continue to intensify, Mr. Lai said