Trump advisers fear China could move on Taiwan within five years, threatening global chip supplies, as Trump delays a 14 billion Taiwan arms package.
Days after US President Donald Trump returned to Washington from China, concerns over a possible Chinese move against Taiwan have reportedly increased among some of his close advisers following his recent summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.
According to an Axios report, several advisers now fear that China could target Taiwan within the next five years, creating major risks for global semiconductor supplies and the American economy.
Advisers raise concerns after Beijing Summit
The concerns reportedly emerged despite the friendly atmosphere during Trump’s visit to China.
Trump was said to have enjoyed the ceremonial welcome and special access arranged by Xi Jinping during the Beijing trip. However, advisers reportedly believed Xi’s message during the talks carried a far stronger geopolitical signal.
One adviser quoted in the report said Xi was attempting to position China as an equal power to the United States rather than a rising one.
The adviser said Xi’s message was effectively, “We’re not a rising power. We’re your equal. And Taiwan is mine.”
The adviser further warned that the summit had increased the possibility that Taiwan could become a major flashpoint within the next five years.
Fears over global chip supply
Trump advisers are also reportedly worried about the impact any Taiwan conflict could have on the global semiconductor industry.
Taiwan remains one of the world’s most important producers of advanced semiconductor chips used in artificial intelligence systems, smartphones, vehicles and other technologies.
According to the Axios report, advisers fear the United States is still far from becoming self-sufficient in chip manufacturing.
“There’s no way we can be ready economically,” one adviser reportedly said while warning that the chip supply chain remains heavily dependent on Taiwan.
The concerns come as competition between the US and China increasingly focuses on technology, artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing.
Trump yet to approve Taiwan arms package
The Taiwan issue remained a major topic during Trump’s visit to China.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Friday, Trump said he had not yet decided whether to approve a proposed $14 billion weapons package for Taiwan.
The package reportedly includes missiles and air defence interceptors and has been pending for several months.
Trump said he did not want to escalate tensions with China over Taiwan.
“The last thing we need right now is a war that’s 9,500 miles away,” Trump said.
During the Beijing talks, Xi reportedly warned Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push US-China relations towards “clashes and even conflicts”.
Trump also referred to America’s 1982 “six assurances” policy regarding Taiwan arms sales, but suggested he did not view the agreement as fully binding under current circumstances.
