Taiwan's Future: A Pawn or an Outcast?

Former President Donald Trump recently stirred up a debate by suggesting that Taiwan should pay the U. S. for protection against China. China, which sees Taiwan as its territory, warned that the U. S. could abandon Taiwan at any time. Taiwan is a key player in the semiconductor industry, a sector vital for both consumer electronics and defense. China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Zhu Fenglian, said that the Taiwanese people are aware that the U. S. always prioritizes its own interests. She also criticized a recent U. S. arms sale to Taiwan, valued at $2 billion. The sale includes surface-to-air missile systems and other defense equipment. China believes that such actions only make the situation more dangerous. Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai disagreed with Trump's claims, stating that Taiwan built its semiconductor industry independently. He expressed confidence in the U. S. and said Taiwan would continue to strengthen its ties with the country. However, China has been increasing its military activities around Taiwan, including drills that simulated a blockade of the island.