What about Taiwan? Why US foreign policy is now all about the western hemisphere

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Seong Hyeon ChoiJanuary 24, 2026 at 03:00 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

The US State Department's strategic plan for 2026-2030 prioritizes the Western Hemisphere over the Indo-Pacific region, notably omitting any specific mention of Taiwan. This contrasts with the White House's National Security Strategy, which identifies deterring conflict over Taiwan as a key priority. While the State Department plan lists peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific as a goal, its primary focus, after national security, is on the Western Hemisphere. This shift in focus within the State Department's long-term planning has raised concerns among observers regarding Washington's perceived insecurity concerning Taiwan and a potential downgrading of the island's importance in US foreign policy. Both the National Security Strategy and the State Department's plan emphasize the importance of the Western Hemisphere.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington 50% Indo-Pacific 60% White House 60% Western Hemisphere ×270% National Security Strategy ×270% United States ×280% US State Department ×280% Taiwan ×490%

Keywords

us foreign policy 90% taiwan 80% western hemisphere 80% state department 70% national security 60% agency strategic plan 50% national security strategy 50% indo-pacific 50% military overmatch 40%