Khaberni - The United States approved on Wednesday $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, in the largest American arms package ever for the island, which is facing increasing military pressure from China.
This announcement of arms sales to Taiwan is the second under the current administration of US President Donald Trump, coming at a time when Beijing is intensifying its military and diplomatic pressure against Taiwan, whose government refuses to recognize Beijing's sovereignty over it.
The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense stated in a statement that the proposed arms deal includes 8 categories, including HIMARS missile systems, howitzers, Javelin anti-tank missiles, and Altius loitering munition drones, as well as spare parts for other equipment.
The statement added, "The United States continues to assist Taiwan in maintaining sufficient self-defense capabilities and in quickly building a strong deterrence force."
The Ministry explained that the deal is in the phase of Congressional notification, a stage where Congress has the opportunity to block or modify the deal if it wishes, although Taiwan enjoys broad bipartisan support.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory, a stance rejected by Taipei.
