The U.S. State Department has announced a substantial arms sales package to Taiwan valued at over $10 billion, which includes medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones. This announcement was made during a televised address by President Donald Trump, who did not address foreign policy issues, including the implications for U.S.-China relations. The arms sales come amid fluctuating tensions between the U.S. and China, primarily concerning trade and China's assertive stance towards Taiwan, which Beijing considers a breakaway province.

If approved by Congress, this package would represent the largest U.S. arms deal with Taiwan, surpassing the $8.4 billion in arms sales during President Joe Biden's administration. The agreements include 82 high-mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS) and 420 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), valued at over $4 billion, as well as 60 self-propelled howitzer systems and drones, also exceeding $4 billion.

Additional components of the package consist of military software, Javelin and TOW missiles, and various spare parts and refurbishment kits, bringing the total to approximately $11.15 billion, according to Taiwan's Defense Ministry.

The State Department stated that these sales are intended to support U.S. national, economic, and security interests by aiding Taiwan in modernizing its military capabilities. The department emphasized that the proposed sales would enhance Taiwan's security and contribute to regional stability.

In response, China's Foreign Ministry condemned the arms sales, asserting that they violate diplomatic agreements and threaten China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ministry's spokesperson criticized Taiwan's government for allegedly pursuing independence through military means, suggesting that such actions could escalate tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

Under U.S. law, the government is required to assist Taiwan in its self-defense efforts, a commitment that has become increasingly contentious as China has expressed intentions to assert control over Taiwan, potentially through force. Taiwan's Defense Ministry expressed appreciation for the U.S. support, stating that the arms sales would bolster its self-defense capabilities and contribute to regional peace.

Taiwan's government has committed to increasing its defense spending to 3.3% of its GDP in the coming year, with plans to reach 5% by 2030. This increase follows U.S. recommendations for Taiwan to allocate a higher percentage of its GDP to defense, a proposal that has faced opposition domestically. Additionally, Taiwan's President announced a special budget of $40 billion for arms purchases, aimed at enhancing its air defense systems over the next eight years.

The recent arms sales were foreshadowed by legislation passed by Congress, which Trump is expected to sign. The Chinese embassy in Washington criticized this legislation, claiming it unfairly targets China as an aggressor. The U.S. Senate has already approved the bill, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in the region.