Thu Dec 18 12:15:46 UTC 2025: U.S. Approves $11 Billion Arms Package for Taiwan, Angering China

Taipei, Taiwan – December 18, 2025 – The United States has approved a massive $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, marking one of the largest defense packages ever provided to the self-governed island. The move, announced by Taipei on Thursday, December 18th, 2025, is intended to bolster Taiwan’s defenses against potential aggression from China.

The weapons package includes HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, anti-tank missiles, drones, and other military equipment, according to the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry. The sale, which still requires U.S. Congressional approval, follows a smaller $330 million sale of parts in November.

“This is the second arms sale to Taiwan announced during the Trump administration’s second term, once again demonstrating the U.S.’s firm commitment to Taiwan’s security,” the ministry stated.

Beijing responded swiftly and angrily to the announcement. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun condemned the sale and urged the United States to adhere to the “one-China principle.” He warned that China would take “resolute and forceful measures to safeguard its territorial integrity.”

China claims Taiwan as a renegade province under its “one-China principle” and has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s government has pledged to increase defense spending to more than 3% of GDP next year and 5% by 2030, driven by pressure from the U.S. The government is also seeking up to NT$1 trillion in special funding to upgrade air defense systems and boost ammunition production.

The arms sale comes amid increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan. On Thursday, Taipei’s Defence Ministry reported detecting 40 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels near the island within a 24-hour period. Earlier this week, Beijing’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, sailed through the Taiwan Strait.

The approval of the arms package signals continued U.S. support for Taiwan’s defense capabilities. The proposed sale is expected to receive Congressional approval, reflecting bipartisan consensus on the importance of deterring potential Chinese aggression in the region.

(This article is published in the December 18, 2025 edition of The Hindu e-Paper)

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