In his first interview since taking office in May 2024, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te spoke with AFP about his expectation that the parliament will approve a substantial $40 billion defense budget aimed at enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities, including arms purchases from the United States. Lai emphasized that he believes the US will continue to support Taiwan and that the island will not be treated as a bargaining chip in US-China negotiations, amidst a backdrop of increasing aggression from China against Taiwan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Washington against military support to Taipei, increasing the stakes in the already tense relationships across the Taiwan Strait. In response, Lai stated that Taiwan's pursuit of autonomy should not be viewed as a negotiation point by the US when dealing with Beijing, highlighting the firm stance Taiwan maintains regarding its defense and sovereignty. This sentiment is met with fierce opposition from China, which has declared Taiwan as part of its territory and threatened military action if necessary.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian harshly criticized Lai's statements, labeling him a "disturber of peace, creator of crises, and instigator of war." Lin’s remarks emphasize China's belief that any moves toward Taiwan's independence, especially facilitated by external forces, will lead to failure. The increasing belligerence in the region underscores the urgency for Taiwan to fortify its defense strategy while navigating the geopolitical tensions with both China and the United States, as the island continues to assert its identity amidst external threats.