Why the US should reconsider arming Taiwan » Capital News

The recent announcement of nearly $2 billion in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan raises pressing questions about the long-term consequences of such military support. While the decision is framed as a means to bolster Taiwan’s defenses amid rising tensions with China, it risks destabilizing the region and increasing the likelihood of conflict.

The Pentagon’s Oct. 26 announcement, which included advanced missile systems and radar technology for Taiwan, has already drawn sharp criticism from Beijing, where it is seen as a direct threat to Chinese sovereignty. China’s Foreign Ministry called on the US to stop the sales, warning that they upset the delicate balance of power in the region and could spark further instability. Beijing also vowed to take “strong countermeasures” to protect its national interests.

The roots of current tensions go back to 1949, when, following the Chinese Civil War, the defeated Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan and the Communist Party founded the People’s Republic of China on the mainland. Since then, Taiwan has operated separately from the Beijing government, but China has consistently maintained that Taiwan remains part of its territory. The United States has long maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity, providing defensive support to Taiwan while officially recognizing Beijing.

However, recent arms sales suggest a change in this long-standing policy. The Biden administration’s decision to provide advanced weapons to Taiwan despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations sends mixed signals that risk provoking China and escalating military confrontation. The move also appears to contradict previous commitments by U.S. leaders to avoid promoting Taiwanese independence, a policy that has generally supported peace in the region.

Arming Taiwan risks further straining US-China relations and triggering an arms race in East Asia. China has rapidly expanded its military capabilities over the past decade, and additional US arms sales to Taiwan could prompt Beijing to respond with a stronger military presence in the Taiwan Strait. This tit-for-tat escalation risks spiraling out of control, significantly increasing the risk of conflict in a region already fraught with tension.

Moreover, the Department of Defense’s justification that these arms sales serve American national, economic, and security interests does not adequately address the potential consequences. While Taiwan certainly has the right to defend itself, the United States should prioritize diplomatic solutions over military escalation. Encouraging dialogue and engagement, rather than increasing military tension, would be a more sustainable and stabilizing approach for the region.

Although the Taiwanese government views these arms sales as an increase in its defense capabilities, many Taiwanese citizens are concerned about the consequences of increased militarization. Rather than creating an atmosphere of security, the influx of modern weapons could escalate tensions and deepen fears of conflict. If the goal is to support peace and stability in Taiwan, the United States should prioritize initiatives that promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence rather than intensifying the arms race in the Taiwan Strait.

The human cost of conflict is invariably high, and the people of Taiwan should not be used as pawns in a broader geopolitical game. The focus should be on ensuring that the voices of the Taiwanese people are respected in any decisions affecting their future. Policies that focus on dialogue rather than militarization are more closely aligned with the needs and interests of ordinary Taiwanese citizens.

Recent U.S. arms sales also undermine the “one China” policy, a long-standing principle that recognizes that there is only one China, of which Taiwan is a part. By sending expanded military aid to Taiwan, the United States risks sending a signal that it no longer takes the policy seriously, thereby damaging diplomatic relations with Beijing. The one-China principle is the cornerstone of US-China relations, and any deviation from it could have long-term consequences for global diplomacy and stability.

As the situation evolves, it is critical that the United States reconsider its approach to Taiwan. Instead of increasing military tensions, the US should advocate diplomacy and peace negotiations between Taiwan and China. Efforts should be aimed at strengthening mutual trust and reducing hostility through cooperation and interaction.

A constructive approach could include initiatives such as cultural exchanges, trade agreements and joint projects that promote economic interdependence and mutual understanding. By supporting closer ties between Taiwan and mainland China, the United States can help reduce the risk of conflict and create a more stable and cooperative environment for the entire region.

The decision to arm Taiwan carries significant risks and undermines prospects for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The United States must prioritize diplomacy over militarization, focusing on solutions that respect the one-China policy and promote open dialogue. By emphasizing cooperation and understanding, the United States has the opportunity to support a peaceful future for the people of Taiwan, China, and the region as a whole.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the pursuit of peace and stability requires restraint, dialogue and respect for long-standing diplomatic principles.

Elijah Mwangi is a scientist from Nairobi; he comments on local and global issues.

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