Former President Donald Trump stated on Monday that he is close to making a decision regarding the dispatch of more military weapons to Taiwan, following warnings from China regarding increased military support for the island. Trump emphasized the discussions he had with Chinese President Xi Jinping, describing their conversation as good and indicating that a decision will be forthcoming in the near future. Trump's intent to enhance military aid comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, especially concerning Taiwan.

During a phone call on February 4, Trump relayed that Xi had urged the importance of mutual respect in U.S.-China relations while cautioning against the ramifications of continued arms sales to Taiwan. Xi's remarks highlighted Taiwan as a crucial issue in U.S.-China relations, wherein he warned that the U.S. should tread carefully regarding military transactions with the self-governing island. This underscores the delicate balance both nations are navigating amidst rising tensions over Taiwan’s status.

China regards Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Conversely, the U.S. does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate nation but maintains a policy of supporting its defense capabilities. This dynamic raises significant implications for regional security in East Asia, as the U.S. grapples with maintaining its commitments to Taiwan while managing an increasingly assertive China.