Trump’s Taiwan Gambit is Already a Gift to China, Say Some Experts

As The Straits Times, we analyze the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play following US President Donald Trump's remarks regarding arms sales to Taiwan. His suggestion of using these sales as a 'bargaining chip' with China has drawn sharp criticism from some experts, who argue it inadvertently benefits Beijing's agenda.

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Security cannot be bought with military purchases; if you become a pawn, you will only be squeezed dry.

Chinese state media has seized upon Trump's comments, disseminating a narrative that undermines Taiwan's confidence in US security assurances. This is particularly concerning for Taiwan, a vibrant democracy that Beijing claims as its own territory. The Global Times, a Chinese publication, has framed it as Taiwan no longer being able to count on 'unconditional indulgence' from the United States, a sentiment echoed by Chinese military officials who warned against Taiwan becoming a 'pawn.'

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I’m holding that in abeyance, and it depends on China.

From our perspective in Singapore, this situation highlights the delicate balance of power in the region. Trump's transactional approach to foreign policy, while perhaps effective in business, raises questions about its application in complex international relations. Experts like Bao Chengke from the Shanghai Cross-Strait Research Association point out that while Trump may view issues through a deal-making lens, tightly linking Taiwan's security with unrelated matters like Iran's nuclear program is 'not feasible.' This approach risks alienating allies and creating instability, issues that are of paramount importance to regional security and economic stability in Southeast Asia.

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He tends to act like a businessman, understanding issues through the lens of dealmaking. But tying the two issues so tightly together really isn’t feasible.