Trump Warns Taiwan on Independence After Xi Summit

Trump’s remarks followed a two-day summit in China focused on trade, regional security and geopolitical tensions between Washington and Beijing. During public comments after the meeting, Trump said the United States would not support a unilateral declaration of independence by Taiwan, while also maintaining that Washington’s longstanding policies toward the island had not changed.

Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive issues in relations between the United States and China. Beijing considers the self-governing island part of its territory and has repeatedly said it could use force if Taiwan moves toward formal independence. The United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as an independent state but is legally committed to supporting the island’s ability to defend itself.

Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned during the summit that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push relations between the two countries into dangerous territory. Chinese officials have increasingly described Taiwan as the central issue in U.S.-China relations, while Beijing has expanded military activity near the island in recent years.

Taiwanese soldiers participating in military exercises near the coastline with defense equipment visible.