The Biden administration has given the go-ahead for the first-ever transfer of U.S. military equipment to Taiwan, marking a significant move typically reserved for independent nations. The State Department spokesperson confirmed the sale to Congress, stating that the materials would enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. The sale falls under the Taiwan Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program, which reserved $2 billion in the fiscal 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. Out of this amount, $80 million is allocated for Taiwan. This move is likely to further strain relations between the U.S. and China, as Beijing views Taiwan as a part of its territory and seeks reunification. China has not ruled out the use of force to achieve this. However, the State Department clarified that the funding does not indicate a change in America’s stance on Taiwanese independence. This is the second time the U.S. has used FMF to provide military assistance to a non-nation-state, with the previous instance being the African Union. The specific military equipment covered by the FMF funding was not disclosed, but it could include air and coastal defense systems, armed vehicles, ballistic missile cyber defenses, and training for Taiwanese military forces. The White House and State Department have not responded to requests for comment. Overall, this move signifies a significant development in the dynamics between the U.S., China, and Taiwan.
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