Missiles to munitions: Does the US risk running out of key weapons?

President-elect Donald Trump stated he will speak directly with Taiwan's president, a departure from established diplomatic protocol. This comes as the US considers a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. China has urged the US to cease sending "wrong signals" to Taiwan and is reportedly blocking a Pentagon official's visit until Trump decides on the arms deal. The US has a history of selling defensive arms to Taiwan under the Taiwan Relations Act. Trump has not yet committed to the current arms package, which reportedly includes anti-drone and missile systems, and indicated he would make a decision soon after speaking with Taiwan's leader.

President Donald Trump has suggested he may speak directly with Taiwan's President William Lai Ching-te, which would be the first such contact since the US shifted diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979. Analysts view this less as a sign of closer US-Taiwan ties and more as an example of Trump's unpredictability. Taiwan's President expressed willingness to speak with Trump, while China firmly opposes official exchanges and US arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing's response to such contact, based on past reactions to similar events, is expected to be strong, potentially impacting US-China relations. Trump's openness to discussing arms sales with Xi Jinping is seen by some analysts as a win for Beijing, though the ultimate impact on US-China relations remains unpredictable.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is visiting Australia for three days to bolster economic and security cooperation. The visit, beginning late Sunday local time in Canberra, will prioritize defense, critical minerals, and economic security. This engagement reflects growing concerns in both nations regarding the evolving regional security and economic landscape, with Japan adopting a more assertive military posture. The strengthening alliance includes increased joint military exercises and technology sharing, exemplified by Australia's purchase of Japanese naval vessels. This deal signifies a shift in Japan's defense strategy and aims to foster future defense equipment exports. The visit underscores the strategic importance of the Japan-Australia relationship amidst a changing Asia-Pacific region.

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly after meeting with former US President Donald Trump, projecting an image of engaging with global leaders without being tied to any. While Xi and Putin signed over 20 agreements on trade and technology, no major breakthroughs were announced, and a stalled Russian gas pipeline deal remains unapproved. The article suggests Russia needs China more on the global stage, while China's economic strength and leverage give Xi a strong hand in negotiations. This diplomatic positioning marks a significant turnaround for China, which was previously facing international criticism and isolation. However, Xi's decision to only mention the Middle East conflict and remain silent on Ukraine raises questions about China's role as an even-handed global player.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing for talks expected to focus on economic cooperation, the Middle East, and the war in Ukraine. The summit, occurring on the 30th anniversary of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia, aims to solidify their strategic alliance amidst heightened geopolitical tensions. Energy cooperation, including the proposed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, is a likely key topic. Approximately 40 deals are anticipated to be signed during Putin's visit. Both nations have strengthened ties due to pressure from Washington, with officials describing their relationship as at an all-time high. The meeting will be closely observed for insights into the future direction of relations between the three major powers.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China for talks with President Xi Jinping, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of a treaty formalizing their ties. This meeting occurred shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing. Analysts suggest that the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy has pushed Russia and China closer together, especially amidst the war in Ukraine and global instability. China has become an economic lifeline for Russia, with bilateral trade significantly increasing, and Russia relies on China for technology and energy exports. The article highlights the deepening partnership between the two nations, driven by shared geopolitical challenges and a desire to advance global development.

US officials express confidence in weapons stockpiles, but analysts suggest dwindling munitions are influencing decisions regarding a potential resumption of the war on Iran. The acting US Navy secretary indicated a pause in a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, citing the need to ensure sufficient munitions for "Epic Fury," the US military operation against Iran. Reports reveal the US expended a significant portion of its advanced missile-defense interceptors, including THAAD and Standard Missile interceptors, to defend Israel during the Iran war. A think tank warned that the US had heavily used seven critical ammunitions, with replenishment taking one to four years. While some experts believe the US is prepared for immediate conflicts, others argue the depletion of strategically valuable weapons could impact other potential theaters of war.

The United States is temporarily halting a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao confirmed this pause at a Senate hearing, stating the decision is to ensure sufficient munitions for the US-Israel joint military operation in Iran, codenamed "Epic Fury." Cao indicated that foreign military sales would resume when the administration deems it necessary. Taiwan's presidential office stated they had not received any information regarding adjustments to the arms sale. The article also notes that President Donald Trump has not yet confirmed final approval for the package, calling it a "negotiating chip" with China.

The acting secretary of the US Navy, Hung Cao, announced a pause in a US$14 billion weapons purchase for Taiwan. This decision was made to ensure sufficient munitions for "Epic Fury." In response, Beijing reiterated its firm and unwavering opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated this position on Friday. The US Navy's action was disclosed during a congressional hearing on Thursday.