U.S. Criticizes Taiwan Over Insufficient Military Spending

The United States has criticized Taiwan after its parliament approved a $25 billion defense budget, saying the amount is lower than Washington expected.

A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously to Reuters, stated that the U.S. believes Taiwan should fully fund the original $40 billion defense package to help maintain regional stability.

According to the official, several important military projects did not receive enough funding.

The budget cuts are expected to force Taiwan’s military to review plans for purchasing and upgrading weapons.

It is worth noting that China imposed export restrictions on seven European organizations linked to the defense sector over arms sales to Taiwan.

According to the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the measures took effect immediately. The Ministry noted that the restrictions are necessary “to protect national security and interests, as well as to fulfill international obligations, including in the area of non-proliferation.”