Taiwan Lawmakers Debate Record Defense Budget as US Warns of Chinese Threats
Taiwan’s lawmakers are deadlocked over a special defense budget proposed by President Lai Ching-te. With China rapidly expanding its military capabilities, analysts say the risk of a wider conflict could push both sides toward a deal.
Taiwan Lawmakers Deadlocked on Special Defense Budget
REPORTER:
A war of words in the opposition-controlled legislature as it blocks a record-high, 40 billion US dollar special defense budget for the fourth time.
Stop blocking the special defense budget.
On the one hand, you say that the Republic of China’s defense needs to be strengthened. But you won’t even discuss it. You won’t even put it on the legislative agenda. If you want to oppose it, fine. If you want to tell the US you oppose the budget, that’s fine too. If you want to tell the US you won’t buy from them, go ahead.
Lai Ching-te is a coward. He proposed a US$40 billion dollar arms procurement plan but doesn't dare come to the legislature to face questioning.
I want to ask the people of Taiwan who is really blocking the budget? It is Lai himself who is holding up the budget.
President Lai Ching-te proposed the budget in late November. It spans 2026 to 2033 and would beef up Taiwan’s air defense, in particular through the T-Dome anti missile system.
A month later, the stalemate in the legislature continues, even after the US announced an 11 billion US dollar arms sale to Taiwan. The American Institute in Taiwan, Washington’s de-facto embassy, is closely watching the dispute.
In a post on Tuesday, the AIT said its deputy director highlighted the US’ support for Taiwan’s defense in a meeting with the opposition Kuomintang’s vice chair on Monday.
Experts say Washington’s message is clear.
The US first announced a massive arms sale. But in Taiwan, the budget has not yet been reviewed or approved. So, it feels a bit like they’re jumping the gun.
Given expectations from the US and the external military pressure from the Chinese Communist Party, the chances of the budget eventually passing are still very high.
All this comes as Washington warns of China’s growing military capabilities. A recent Pentagon report to the US congress highlights Beijing’s goal to be ready to win a war against Taiwan by 2027. To that end, China’s military has been developing and testing its missiles, navy and ability to land troops.
Taiwan is fighting a double battle—inside its legislature over the defense budget, and one to protect its borders.
