Trump weighs Taiwan arms sale decision ahead of China visit

Chinese and Hong Kong–based outlets focus on concern that Trump might use Taiwan’s arms package as a bargaining chip in talks with Xi Jinping. They highlight anxiety in Taiwan that Washington could delay or downgrade weapons to win concessions from Beijing on other issues. Commentators in the region say any sign of US backtracking would strengthen China’s hand over Taiwan and reshape security thinking in East Asia.

• •Chinese and Taiwan-based media say Trump’s claim of discussing Taiwan arms with Xi Jinping has sparked fears that Taiwan’s security is being negotiated without Taipei.
• •Regional outlets claim the White House is considering delaying the arms sale under pressure from Beijing.
• •Chinese commentary argues that if the US slows or scales down weapons for Taiwan, Beijing will see it as proof that its pressure works.
• •Taiwan-focused reports say officials in Taipei worry that Trump’s China visit will come at the cost of needed weapons.
• •Regional analysts claim that how Trump handles the Taiwan package will influence how Japan and other neighbors judge US staying power in Asia.