U.S. Senators Visit Taiwan, Signal Support Despite Trump’s Tariffs/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ U.S. lawmakers from both parties visited Taiwan to reinforce American support amid Trump’s tariff crackdown. Despite a 32% tariff, Taiwan is pushing for new trade deals and military readiness. Senators met top Taiwanese officials and discussed strengthening ties and defense strategy.
Taiwan-U.S. Ties in Focus – Quick Look
- Bipartisan delegation visits Taiwan under Trump’s new administration
- Senators reaffirm support for Taiwan despite 32% tariffs imposed by Trump
- Taiwan fast-tracking trade and defense investments with the U.S.
- President Lai Ching-te meets with U.S. lawmakers Friday
- Lawmakers cite lessons from Ukraine as Taiwan boosts defense
- Taiwan pledges to raise military spending to 3% of GDP
- U.S.-Taiwan chip investment tops $100 billion in 2025
- Japan opens talks with U.S. on avoiding Trump’s trade penalties
U.S. Lawmakers Visit Taiwan to Reaffirm Defense Support Despite Trump’s Tariffs
Deep Looks
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A high-level bipartisan delegation of U.S. lawmakers visited Taiwan this week to signal unwavering support for the island’s defense and economic relationship with the U.S., even as President Donald Trump ramps up tariffs and criticism toward one of Washington’s most critical allies in the Asia-Pacific.
Led by Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts and Democratic Sen. Chris Coons, the delegation represents the first official congressional visit to Taiwan under Trump’s second term. Despite a surprise 32% tariff recently imposed on Taiwanese exports, the visit was described by lawmakers as “forward-looking” and optimistic.
“We’re going to see a strong next chapter in U.S.-Taiwan relations,” said Sen. Coons, adding that Taiwan was making notable strides in both defense and trade reforms.
Navigating Trump’s Tariff Policies
Trump’s sweeping global tariffs have hit allies and adversaries alike, including Taiwan—a country that had considered itself one of America’s most reliable partners. In response, Taiwanese officials assured U.S. lawmakers that they are acting swiftly to address trade concerns, even as negotiations continue.
Taiwan’s $100 billion in U.S.-based semiconductor investments this year underscores its commitment to deepening economic ties. Taiwanese officials say they’ve already initiated talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to fast-track a new agreement during the administration’s 90-day tariff pause.
Defense, Drones, and Regional Security
The senators praised Taiwan’s defense reforms, which they say have been informed by Ukraine’s resilience against Russia. Taiwan is investing heavily in drones, missile systems, and local weapons production, aiming to become more self-sufficient and agile.
“Taiwan understands what it takes to defend itself,” said Sen. Ricketts. “They’re not waiting for us to act—they’re acting now.”
President Lai Ching-te has pledged to boost Taiwan’s military spending to 3% of GDP, a major jump from its current 2.5%. That would represent nearly a fifth of the national budget.
U.S. Delegation and Diplomatic Messaging
The delegation also includes Sen. Ted Budd, a Republican from North Carolina. The group met with Taiwan’s president, Defense Minister Wellington Koo, and National Security Adviser Joseph Wu to discuss security cooperation and economic ties.
“Look past the rhetoric and look at the action,” Ricketts said, downplaying Trump’s harsh remarks, including past claims that “Taiwan stole our chip industry” and should “pay us” for military protection.
Trump’s earlier statements raised concerns that the U.S. might waver if China were to invade. However, lawmakers on the trip stressed continued bipartisan consensus on Taiwan’s security.
Regional Tensions and Trade War Concerns
Taiwan remains at the center of U.S.-China tensions. Beijing considers the democratic island part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to annex it. U.S. defense officials warn that the ongoing U.S.-China trade war could increase the likelihood of military escalation.
“If Xi Jinping believes the moment is right, China might act,” Coons warned. “But they would face a united response.”
Meanwhile, Japan and the U.S. began formal trade talks Friday in Washington, aiming to resolve tariff disputes. The talks could pave the way for similar deals with other countries affected by Trump’s new trade regime, although experts say progress will take time.
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