Biden Hints at Possible Military Action to Defend Taiwan Amid Rising US-China Tensions

US President Joe Biden hints at using military force to defend Taiwan against potential Chinese invasion, while emphasizing continued support for Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities.

In a recent interview with Time magazine, President Joe Biden indicated that the United States might use military force to defend Taiwan if China attempts to invade. Biden emphasized a distinction between ground deployment and other forms of military intervention, such as air and naval power. He stressed the US's commitment to supplying Taiwan with defense capabilities and consulting with regional allies.

Biden's statements come amid escalating tensions between the US and China over Taiwan. The US has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan and provides arms to support its self-defense. This stance is part of a broader strategy to counter China's regional ambitions and ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific.

CIA Director William Burns noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping has instructed the Chinese military to be ready for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027. This aligns with recent aggressive maneuvers by China, including military drills around Taiwan in response to the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, who Beijing views as a separatist.

Biden also criticized China's economic policies and its Belt and Road Initiative, describing the latter as ineffective. He highlighted the importance of strengthening alliances with Europe and Asia and fostering relations with developing countries to maintain US global leadership.

In line with this strategy, a trilateral meeting in Singapore involving US, Japanese, and South Korean defense officials reaffirmed the importance of regional peace and a peaceful resolution to cross-strait issues. The US continues to express concerns over China's military activities near Taiwan, as seen in recent discussions between US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and his Chinese counterpart, Dong Jun.

Further, the US House Appropriations Committee has introduced a bill to provide $500 million in military financing for Taiwan, along with up to $2 billion in loans and loan guarantees to enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities. This legislative move underscores the US's commitment to deterring aggression across the Taiwan Strait.

As tensions persist, the US's position remains clear: supporting Taiwan's defense while seeking peaceful solutions to maintain regional stability.