U.S. support for Taiwan reaffirmed by members of Congress
In this screenshot from a video released by the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on December 29, 2025, a ship fires a weapon during exercises east of Taiwan.
Eastern Theater Command | via Reuters
According to delegation members at the meeting, the US Congress continues to provide strong support for Taiwan, although it remains a focal point in relations with China. IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
“There’s really strong bipartisan support for Taiwan and for Taiwan’s security, and we’re making sure that we’re building on a lot of the progress that’s been made on the island’s ability to defend itself,” Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., said at a Dialogue media roundtable.
Taiwan, which defends its right to self-government but is also claimed by China, has become the center of attention due to the statements made by US President Donald Trump over time. Trump says $14 billion arms sale to candidate approved by Congressbargaining chip“With China.
“Our commitment to Taiwan remains unchanged,” Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.) said at another media roundtable at the Dialogue. “When you look at our work with Taiwan, there can be no argument that the United States is not there for the island.”
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth did not mention Taiwan in his previous speech to the Dialogue. But Rep. Michael Baumgartner, R-W.A., downplayed the significance of this omission.
Baumgartner said Hegseth “articulated the status quo emphatically.” “In my view, that includes Taiwan.”
Rep. Greg Meeks, D-N.Y., noted that arms sales to Taiwan were approved by Congress on a “bipartisan basis.” “We are focused on Taiwan and its security” and “we are ready to give them what they need to defend themselves.”
