US Should Prioritize Ukraine Over Taipei for Now: Ex-Taiwan President

Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has urged the US government to prioritize military aid to Ukraine despite escalating tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

Speaking at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada, Tsai emphasized that Washington must do everything possible to support Kyiv, which has been resisting Russia’s aggression for nearly three years.

She also suggested that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan may not be imminent, giving Taipei more time to strengthen its defenses.

“A Ukrainian victory will serve as the most effective deterrent to future aggression,” Tsai said, implying that US support for Ukraine could also help dissuade Beijing from attacking the island nation.

Despite her call for US support for Ukraine, Tsai expressed confidence that Washington will continue to be a key supplier of military equipment to Taiwan.

“We seem to be a very sensitive buyer,” Tsai noted. “Some people may have some hesitation or have to extend [the] price before they agree to sell this weaponry. The US seems to be more generous.”

Potential Chinese Invasion

China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to reunite it with the mainland.

Increasing military activities around Taiwan have fueled speculation that Beijing may be preparing for an invasion by 2027.

These concerns grew when China’s People’s Liberation Army released a video in May simulating a potential invasion of Taiwan.

In response to the growing threats, the US has increased its support for Taiwan, delivering the first batch of Army Tactical Missile Systems and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems earlier this month.

Washington has also agreed to sell nearly 1,000 attack drones to Taipei, though the contract value has not been disclosed.