White House deflects as Trump weighs Taiwan arms sale delay amid Beijing pressure

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Mark MagnierFebruary 19, 2026 at 12:42 AM

White House deflects as Trump weighs Taiwan arms sale delay amid Beijing pressure

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The White House is declining to comment on reports that President Trump is considering delaying or cancelling a proposed $11 billion arms package to Taiwan. This comes as Trump seeks to maintain positive relations with China and keep an April summit with President Xi Jinping on track. Trump acknowledged discussing the potential arms sale with Xi, who opposes it. The situation raises concerns that Trump might be violating the "Six Assurances," a framework guaranteeing the US would not consult with Beijing on arms sales to Taiwan. The assurances were established in 1982 to reassure Taiwan of continued US support.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ronald Reagan 30% Karoline Leavitt 40% Six Assurances 60% White House ×270% United States ×275% Xi Jinping ×380% Taiwan ×380% China (Beijing) ×385% Donald Trump ×490%

Keywords

taiwan arms sale 100% us-china relations 80% donald trump 70% xi jinping 70% six assurances 60% beijing pressure 60% summit 50% us foreign policy 50%

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Negative

Score: -0.20

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South China Morning Post

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90%

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