Taiwan Responds Firmly to Trump's Comments on Its Status and US Support

Taiwan's foreign ministry has issued a strong response to US President Donald Trump's recent comments regarding the island's status and its relationship with China. Emphasizing its sovereignty, Taiwan reiterated that Beijing has no jurisdiction over it and defended US arms sales as part of long-standing security commitments. Trump's remarks during a Fox News interview suggested a noncommittal stance on Taiwan, indicating that while he is in office, he believes China may not take aggressive actions. This situation highlights the ongoing complexities in Taiwan's international relations and its quest for recognition as an independent nation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2026, 07:56 IST

Taiwan's Strong Rebuttal

On Sunday, Taiwan's foreign ministry reacted strongly to statements made by US President Donald Trump regarding the island's status and the support it receives from the United States. The ministry emphasized that 'Beijing has no authority to assert jurisdiction over Taiwan.' Following Trump's remarks, Taiwan expressed gratitude for Washington's backing in maintaining regional peace and stability, while reaffirming its identity as a 'sovereign democratic nation.' The ministry stated, 'Beijing has no right to claim jurisdiction over Taiwan,' and committed to enhancing cooperation with the US to ensure the security and stability of the Taiwan Strait.

Furthermore, Taiwan reiterated its status as an independent democratic entity, asserting that it is not under the control of the People's Republic of China. In response to Trump's comments suggesting that Taiwan 'depends on China' and is a 'valuable negotiating chip,' the ministry defended US arms sales to Taiwan as part of America's longstanding security obligations.

Trump's Remarks on Taiwan

What Did Trump Say?

In a recent interview with Fox News' Bret Baier, President Trump articulated a cautious stance on Taiwan, offering neither reassurance to Taipei nor a clear signal to Beijing. He highlighted the importance of his relationship with Xi Jinping and implied that China might refrain from aggressive actions regarding Taiwan while he remains in office. Trump remarked, 'It's not a takeover. They just don't want to see this place - we'll call it a place because nobody knows how to define it - but they don't want to see it go independent.' He added, 'I don't think they'll do anything when I'm here. When I'm not here, I think they might, to be honest with you.' Trump expressed a desire for China to 'cool down,' emphasizing that the US is not seeking conflict and suggesting that maintaining the status quo would be acceptable to China.

Trump concluded his discussions with Xi Jinping and wrapped up his state visit to Beijing on Friday. During Xi's recent summit with Trump, China characterized Taiwan as 'the most significant issue in China-US relations.'

(With agency inputs)