“U.S. forces will defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion” says President Biden

In his most explicit statement so far, US president Joe Biden stated that US forces would in fact defend Taiwan in the event of an invasion by China. The interview broadcast on Sunday, is the latest instance of Biden going beyond long-standing U.S. policy on Taiwan, however, his statement was much clearer this time about committing U.S. troops to the defend the island.

The United States has long taken stand on the policy of strategic ambiguity and not making clear whether it would respond militarily to an attack on Taiwan.
Asked to comment, a White House spokesperson said U.S. policy towards Taiwan had not changed.

On the other hand, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed its thanks to Biden for his reaffirming of the “U.S. government’s rock-solid security commitment to Taiwan”. Adding that, Taiwan continues to strengthen its self-defense capabilities and deepen the close security partnership with the United States.

In the 60 Minutes interview, Biden reiterated the United States did not support Taiwanese independence and remained committed to a “One-China” policy in which Washington officially recognizes Beijing not Taipei.

The President’s remarks are sure to anger Beijing, which was greatly triggered by U.S. House speaker Nancy Pelosi visit to Taiwan in August. Her visit was met by China’s largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan with the PRC protesting moves by U.S. lawmakers to advance legislation that would enhance U.S. military support for Taiwan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to bring Taiwan under Beijing’s control and has not ruled out the use of force. Taiwan strongly objects to China’s sovereignty claims.

In a phone call with Biden in July, Xi warned against playing with fire over Taiwan, saying “those who play with fire will perish by it.”