U.S. Pauses $14 Billion Taiwan Arms Sale Over Munitions Needs

The U.S. has paused a planned $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan to ensure sufficient munitions for the Iran operation, according to comments by the acting U.S. Navy secretary. Taiwan's government said Friday it has not been notified of any pause or adjustment to the sale. A presidential spokesperson stated that authorities have seen the reports but currently have no information regarding changes.

Background on the Sale The sale was authorized by American lawmakers in January but cannot proceed until formally submitted to Congress. An earlier $11 billion package approved in December has not yet moved forward. The acting U.S. Navy secretary told a Senate committee Thursday that foreign military sales would resume when the administration deems it appropriate.

He said the current pause is intended to make sure the U.S. has the munitions needed for the Iran operation.

and China Taiwanese President Lai

Ching-te said Wednesday that continued U.S. arms purchases are essential for peace. He indicated he would tell the U.S. to continue the purchases if given the chance. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China's opposition to the U.S. arms sale to Taiwan is consistent, clear-cut and resolute.

Last week Chinese President Xi Jinping told the U.S. that the Taiwan question is the most important issue in U.S.-China relations.

“Right now we’re doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for ‘Epic Fury,’" — Acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao, Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing. Taiwan's presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said Friday there was no more information about a potential conversation between Lai and the U.S. leadership. She noted that Trump later told reporters he needed to talk to the person who is running Taiwan.”