North Korea's Foreign Ministry condemned the US approval of advanced air-to-air missile sales to South Korea, warning of escalating tensions. Meanwhile, India summoned the US charge d'affaires for the second time in two days to protest US attacks on commercial ships off Oman, which killed three Indian sailors.
Taiwan's US representative expects approval for new arms sales from Washington, while opposition leader Cheng Li-wun clarifies her party's stance during a Washington visit, emphasizing cooperation over procedural concerns.
Taiwan's defense budget for US arms sales faces potential delays. The article urges Taiwan to clarify payment schedules and training arrangements for HIMARS and other weapons, emphasizing that self-preparedness is crucial regardless of US decisions.
The US has adjusted its rhetoric on China, moving from labeling it the 'primary threat' to emphasizing a 'measured and deliberate strength' approach, while still acknowledging the shared concern over China's military expansion and its impact on the Pacific region's balance of power.
US official Cao stated that foreign military sales to Taiwan will continue when the administration deems necessary, while Taiwan's Koo confirmed no notification of policy change. The Pentagon noted final decisions rest with Trump, with US policy under the Taiwan Relations Act unchanged.
US arms sales to Taiwan are delayed due to depleted US ammunition stocks from Middle East conflicts and ongoing US-China discussions. Congress is pushing to approve a $14 billion arms package to reaffirm commitment to Taiwan's defense.
China's foreign ministry reiterated its "consistent, clear and unwavering" opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan. A US official indicated sales would continue when deemed necessary, while Taiwan's presidential office stated no information suggests adjustments to the sales.
The US has paused a $14bn arms sale to Taiwan to ensure sufficient munitions for its operations in Iran. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao stated sales will resume when deemed necessary, causing concern in Taipei.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo JiaKun stated that China firmly opposes US arms sales to Taiwan, responding to reports of the US pausing sales to Taiwan to prioritize ammunition for actions against Iran.
US arms sales to Taiwan are on hold due to ammunition needs for the Middle East conflict, according to a Pentagon official. The $14 billion deal is paused to ensure sufficient munitions for Operation Epic Fury, launched against Iran.
North Korea warned of countermeasures against recent US approval of arms sales to South Korea, calling it a "reckless military buildup" and a scheme to use Seoul as an "armed shock brigade" in the Asia-Pacific.
Taiwan's top official, Lai Ching-te, stated that US arms sales and security cooperation are crucial for regional peace, amid concerns of a potential Chinese invasion. He emphasized Taiwan's sovereignty and democratic way of life, while China views Taiwan as a breakaway province.
Taiwan's deputy foreign minister affirmed commitment to peace and self-defense, citing US arms sales as crucial for stability. President Trump's stance on a major weapons sale remains uncertain, adding to regional tensions.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's presence in President Trump's Beijing entourage signals a push for strengthened military communications with China, with discussions likely to include US arms sales to Taiwan, nuclear weapons, and restoring military communication channels.
