In a recent interview, Taiwan's Defense Minister Wellington Koo underscored the importance of enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities in light of potential Chinese aggression while expressing confidence in U.S. support for regional stability.
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Emphasizes Asymmetric Warfare Amidst U.S.-China Tensions
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Emphasizes Asymmetric Warfare Amidst U.S.-China Tensions
Wellington Koo outlines Taiwan's strategic defense posture as regional security concerns escalate between the U.S. and China.
Amid escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Taiwan's Defense Minister Wellington Koo has underscored the necessity of bolstering Taiwan's defenses against an increasingly assertive China. Koo's statements come at a time when concerns regarding U.S. commitment to Taiwan's security are rising due to the Trump administration's mixed signals. Although he acknowledges the U.S. remains a critical deterrent against Chinese aggression, Koo stresses the importance of Taiwan preparing for asymmetric warfare.
In an extensive interview with several news outlets, including The New York Times, Koo emphasized that while the U.S. still retains significant military power in the region, Taiwan cannot be complacent in its own defense. With a backdrop of China’s insistence on its claims over Taiwan and the possibility of military unification, Koo insists that demonstrating the grave economic consequences of war may dissuade Beijing from aggressive actions.
“Understanding that the costs of potential conflict would be extremely high is crucial,” Koo remarked, noting that the United States shares this perspective regarding the preservation of stability in the Taiwan Strait. He acknowledges the “America First” policy but believes security considerations in the Indo-Pacific are paramount.
Taiwan has been steadily increasing its defense spending and evolving its military strategy to counter any looming threats more effectively.
