Wealthy, democratic and strategically located off the Chinese coast, Taiwan has long been the most volatile issue between the US and China.
Politics Explainer Facebook X LinkedIn Email Link Gift Expand Shoppers at a night market in Taipei.
Source: Bloomberg Facebook X LinkedIn Email Link Gift Gift this article Contact us: Provide news feedback or report an error Confidential tip?
Send a tip to our reporters Site feedback: Take our Survey New Window Facebook X LinkedIn Email Link Gift By Yian Lee and Samson Ellis May 15, 2026 at 2:24 AM UTC Bookmark Save Wealthy, democratic and strategically located off the Chinese coast, Taiwan has long been the most volatile issue between the US and China.
The US has helped arm Taiwan and, under President Joe Biden , made clear it would defend the self-ruling democracy in the event of an invasion. After creating some doubt about US backing, President Donald Trump last November said Chinese President Xi Jinping “understands what will happen” if the People’s Liberation Army attempts a takeover of Taiwan.
