Taiwan has officially declared its independence and democratic status, stressing that it is not subordinate to China. This was a response to the words of US President Donald Trump, who announced the day before that he would cut off defence support for Taiwan.
Taiwan emphasises sovereignty
Taiwan's official position came after a resonant statements the president of the United States Donald Trump to end the island's defence. Taipei made this clear: Taiwan is a sovereign, independent and democratic country that is not subordinate to China," the government said in a statement.
After Trump announced the change in US policy towards Taiwan, the island's capital immediately reacted by stressing the inviolability of its status. Taiwan does not recognise any claims China and calls on the international community to support its right to self-determination.
Reaction to the US announcement
Trump's statement came as a surprise to many allies in the region. Previously, Washington was one of Taiwan's key security partners, and the supply of defensive weapons was seen as an important element of deterring China. Now that the White House has reconsidered its position, Taipei emphasises that the island will not abandon its course towards democracy and independence.
The Taiwanese government called on international partners not to leave the island alone in the face of Beijing's pressure. Taipei also pointed out that change in US policy could affect the balance of power in the region and the security of the entire Indo-Pacific space.
International context
Taiwan's stance on independence has repeatedly caused tensions with China, which considers the island to be part of it. However, Taipei emphasises that the country has its own system of governance, a democratically elected government, and is not subordinate to Beijing. Trump's recent statements have only intensified the debate about the island's future and international status.
Following the US announcement that it will cut off military aid, experts predict that Taiwan will intensify its diplomatic efforts to maintain the support of other Western countries. The island's government has already asked its allies to reaffirm their position on Taiwan's sovereignty.
Why it matters
Taiwan's response to Donald Trump's statement is of strategic importance for regional security. The official confirmation of the island's independence demonstrates Taipei's readiness to defend its democratic choice even if it loses the support of a key ally. Further developments around Taiwan will affect not only the balance of power in East Asia but also global stability.
