Taiwan and tensions with China: an overview

Paris – 25 May 2026: Relations between Taiwan and China have long been marked by tensions that have been further exacerbated by recent diplomatic events. A central aspect of these tensions is the US stance toward Taiwan and the related political implications.

In May 2026, former US President Donald Trump visited China, where he met with President Xi Jinping. During this meeting, the Taiwan issue was discussed intensively. Xi Jinping warned of the potential dangers of a conflict should the Taiwan issue not be addressed appropriately. He stressed that the Chinese government would not hesitate to use force to bring Taiwan back under its control.

After this summit, President Trump expressed his intention to speak with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. It would be the first direct conversation between a US president and a Taiwanese president since 1979, when the United States severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan and recognized the People’s Republic of China. Trump said that he speaks with everyone and wants to address the “Taiwan issue.”

President Lai Ching-te responded positively to this statement and said he would be “happy” to speak with Trump. He stressed that Taiwan is open to dialogue in order to clarify misunderstandings and strengthen relations.

However, these developments raise questions about future stability in the region. Taiwan regards the United States as an important partner for its defense and security. Trump’s recent statements, in which he described the possibility of a $14 billion arms supply to Taiwan as a “bargaining chip,” have caused concern in Taiwan. President Lai defended arms purchases from the US as essential for regional stability, stressing that Taiwan has the right to strengthen its defense.

The Chinese government responded to these developments with harsh criticism. It accused President Lai of promoting Taiwan’s independence and undermining China’s sovereignty. Beijing reiterated that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that the issue of reunification is an internal matter.

Overall, these events reflect the complex and tense relations between Taiwan, China, and the United States. The issue of Taiwan’s independence remains a central point of contention that could have not only regional but also global repercussions. The upcoming talks between President Trump and President Lai will be decisive in determining the future course of these relations and avoiding possible conflicts.