In a sharp rebuke from Capitol Hill, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna has fiercely criticized President Donald Trump’s recent comments on consulting China over future arms sales to Taiwan. The senior Democrat, serving as the ranking member on the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, labeled Trump’s remarks as ‘dangerous’ and a direct violation of longstanding U.S. policy.
Khanna’s statement came swiftly after Trump suggested he would discuss Taiwan arms sales with Chinese President Xi Jinping. ‘President Trump’s notion that he is negotiating with Xi Jinping on future arms sales to Taiwan is alarming and a clear breach of U.S. policy and the Six Assurances,’ Khanna declared in an official release. These Six Assurances, established during the Reagan administration, form the bedrock of America’s commitment to Taiwan’s security, explicitly stating that the U.S. will not consult Beijing on arms provisions to Taipei.
The controversy underscores escalating tensions in U.S.-China relations, where Taiwan remains a flashpoint. Trump’s offhand comment has ignited concerns among lawmakers about the consistency of American foreign policy. Khanna urged the White House to reaffirm its dedication to the Six Assurances and clarify that no changes are underway in Taiwan strategy.
Background on the Six Assurances reveals six key principles guiding U.S.-Taiwan ties since 1982. The second assurance is particularly relevant: Washington has never agreed to seek Beijing’s approval for defensive arms sales to Taiwan. This stance is enshrined in the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, which mandates the U.S. to provide Taiwan with necessary defense articles despite lacking formal diplomatic recognition.
Khanna’s critique highlights bipartisan worries over Taiwan’s precarious position amid Beijing’s growing assertiveness. As the U.S. navigates strategic rivalry with China, such statements risk undermining deterrence in the Taiwan Strait. Lawmakers like Khanna are pushing for unwavering support, emphasizing that any perceived wavering could embolden aggressive moves from the mainland.
The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance in Indo-Pacific security. With elections looming and global stakes high, Khanna’s call for policy clarity resonates widely. Observers await the administration’s response, hoping it will reinforce America’s ironclad commitments to its democratic ally.