Tensions flare in U.S. foreign policy circles as Rep. Ro Khanna blasts President Trump’s hints at deal-making with China on Taiwan arms. The California Democrat, pivotal in Congress’s U.S.-China strategy oversight, described the comments as ‘chilling’ and a stark reversal of sacred commitments.
In a pointed statement, Khanna targeted Trump’s idea of consulting Xi on future sales, clashing head-on with the Six Assurances. These six Reagan-vintage principles, including a firm no to Beijing consultations, have guided U.S. support for Taiwan’s defense uninterruptedly.
Rooted in the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, this legal backbone requires arms provisions to Taiwan despite diplomatic realities. Khanna implored Trump to affirm no policy shift, stressing the peril of ambiguity in a volatile theater.
The Six Assurances detail assurances like resisting pressure on Taiwan to deal with China directly. Khanna’s critique, from his committee perch, carries weight in bipartisan efforts to fortify the island democracy.
Amid U.S.-China brinkmanship, Taiwan symbolizes resolve. Trump’s phrasing alarms strategists, fearing it dilutes deterrence against potential invasion. Khanna’s push for explicit reassurance aims to steady nerves and project strength.
Observers note this as symptomatic of erratic signaling. With stakes encompassing global trade and security, Khanna’s voice galvanizes action. Expect heightened scrutiny on White House Taiwan rhetoric moving forward.