Concerns that the US might abandon Taiwan are often overstated. While US President Donald Trump’s handling of Ukraine raised unease in Taiwan, it is crucial to recognize that Taiwan is not Ukraine. Under Trump, the US views Ukraine largely as a European problem, whereas the Indo-Pacific region remains its primary geopolitical focus. Taipei holds immense strategic value for Washington and is unlikely to be treated as a bargaining chip in US-China relations.
Trump’s vision of “making America great again” would be directly undermined by any move to abandon Taiwan.
Despite the rhetoric of “America First,” the Trump administration understands the necessity of countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Abandoning Taiwan would weaken US influence in the region, allowing China to gain a strategic advantage.
Moreover, the US public remains overwhelmingly wary of China. The electorate, especially those concerned about China’s rise, would view abandoning Taiwan as a betrayal of the US’ interests and democratic values. Taipei’s broad bipartisan support in Washington reinforces that reality.
At the Raisina Dialogue, India’s premier foreign policy forum, in New Delhi this month, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard reaffirmed that commitment, stating: “America first is not America alone.”
Her remarks in India — a key player in the Indo-Pacific region — underscored the US’ enduring engagement in the region.
Similarly, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that “in the Indo-Pacific, they [China] are trying to drive us out.”
To maintain its influence, the US must stand by Taiwan.
The notion that “America First” equates to abandoning Taiwan must be dispelled. As former Singaporean permanent representative to the UN Bilahari Kausikan said at the Yushan Forum this month: “Trump’s rhetoric should not be over-analyzed.”
Washington cannot afford to abandon Taiwan — that is a strategic reality. Taiwan’s significance extends beyond preserving democracy or maintaining the US’ credibility among its allies; it plays a central role in Indo-Pacific security.
While the Taiwan issue might not pose an existential threat to the US, its strategic importance is undeniable. Abandoning Taiwan would come at a steep cost, weakening the US’ influence and emboldening China’s territorial ambitions.
That said, Taiwan cannot afford complacency. While concerns about Washington’s commitment are valid, Taiwan’s greatest challenges stem from within. Political divisions and legislative gridlock hinder governance and weaken defense capabilities. Taiwan’s leaders must rise above partisan disputes and prioritize long-term national security. The challenges Taiwan faces transcend electoral cycles; they are about the country’s survival. Cross-party cooperation on defense and security is imperative, as the threat from China escalates. The risk of miscalculation is growing, making unity more critical than ever.
That is something the opposition in Taiwan must recognize and address, rather than using national security as a tool for political gains. Ensuring a strong and united front would be essential in navigating the growing challenges Taiwan faces.
Taiwan must close internal divides and foster greater political cohesion, particularly in defense. Strengthening global lobbying efforts is equally essential. While the US remains Taiwan’s primary security partner, Taipei cannot rely solely on Washington. It must diversify its alliances, deepening ties with partners such as India, Japan, Australia and the Philippines to counter international isolation.
Now is the time for Taiwan to move beyond dependence on the US and expand its global support network.
A recalibration of Taiwan’s strategy is imperative. It must refine its messaging to ensure its voice is heard globally. Strengthening its international branding and strategic communications would be key to elevating its global standing.
More importantly, Taiwan must take tangible steps to bolster its self-defense capabilities, including increasing defense spending and investing in asymmetric warfare. A stronger defense posture would enhance deterrence and reinforce the nation’s position.
Additionally, Taiwan should deepen its economic partnerships to strengthen resilience against coercion. Expanding trade arrangements, investing in technological innovation and securing supply chain security would bolster its economic independence.
As China continues to employ economic coercion, Taiwan’s ability to withstand such tactics would be vital. Economic strength and military preparedness must go hand in hand to ensure long-term stability.
Washington’s support for Taipei is unlikely to waver, but it must not breed complacency. Caught between an increasingly assertive China and the unpredictability of US foreign policy, Taiwan must prioritize the self-sufficiency, resilience and diversification of its partnerships.
Taiwan’s strength lies in its ability to shape its own future — ensuring a sustainable path that guarantees its security and survival.
Sana Hashmi is a fellow at the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation. The views represented here are personal.
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