US President Donald Trump has indicated he may speak with Taiwan’s leader Lai Ching-te as discussions continue over a potential US arms sale to the island, marking what could be a major shift from long-standing diplomatic practice.
Direct communication between US and Taiwanese leaders has been largely avoided since 1979, when Washington formally ended diplomatic relations with Taipei in order to recognise Beijing.
China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, strongly opposes any official contact between the United States and the island and has repeatedly warned against arms sales that strengthen Taiwan’s defence capabilities.
The US, while maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan, is legally committed under the Taiwan Relations Act to support the island’s self-defence and has continued to supply military equipment over the years.
Trump said he would “speak to him” when asked about possible discussions with Lai, adding that he engages with multiple global leaders as part of ongoing diplomatic considerations surrounding what he referred to as the Taiwan issue.
He also described his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping as positive following recent high-level talks in Beijing, while acknowledging that Taiwan remains a sensitive point in US–China relations.
A proposed arms package reportedly worth around $14 billion, which may include air defence systems and anti-drone technology, is currently under review, though no final decision has been made.
Beijing has warned Washington against moving forward with the deal and has urged the US to avoid sending what it describes as “wrong signals” to pro-independence elements in Taiwan.
Taiwanese authorities have welcomed continued US security support, arguing that such assistance is essential for maintaining regional stability amid increasing military pressure from China.
President Lai has repeatedly stated that Taiwan remains a sovereign and democratic entity and has emphasised the importance of preserving the current status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
The issue continues to be one of the most sensitive flashpoints in US–China relations, with both sides balancing diplomacy, security interests, and long-standing political tensions over the island’s status.
