US WEAPONS SALE TO TAIWAN
Why has Taiwan issued a travel advisory to its residents visiting China?
China has threatened to execute residents of Taiwan who support its independence. This is the yet another move by China aimed at intimidating Taiwan. Taiwan has issued a travel advisory to its residents visiting China.
US has sent Israel thousands of 2,000-pound bombs since Oct. 7
The Biden administration has sent Israel large quantities of munitions, including over 14,000 MK-84 2,000-pound bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles, since the Gaza war began. These shipments, aimed at replenishing Israel's military supplies, reflect substantial U.S. support despite international calls to limit arms. While one shipment was paused over concerns about its impact in densely populated areas, other deliveries continue. The ongoing conflict has heightened international scrutiny and sparked political debate within the U.S., particularly among young Democrats. The administration maintains sufficient stockpiles and works with industry partners to produce more weapons.
US and China hold first informal nuclear talks in 5 years, eyeing Taiwan
The Chinese representatives offered reassurances after their U.S. interlocutors raised concerns that China might use, or threaten to use, nuclear weapons if it faced defeat in a conflict over Taiwan. Beijing views the democratically governed island as its territory, a claim rejected by the government in Taipei.
Biden bans US sales of Kaspersky software over Russia ties
The United States on Thursday banned Russia-based cybersecurity firm Kaspersky from providing its popular anti-virus products in the country, the US Commerce Department announced. "Kaspersky will generally no longer be able to, among other activities, sell its software within the United States or provide updates to software already in use," the Commerce Department said in a statement announcing the action, which it said is the first of its kind. da/des
Taiwan to receive 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles from US by year-end
Taiwan is set to receive all 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles and 100 launchers from the US by the end of this year, following a two-year delay. The delay was due to the weapons initially failing to meet US Army standards. However, after passing all required tests, delivery is now expected before year-end. These missiles are part of three major arms packages purchased from the US, including F-16V fighter jets and AGM-154 air-to-ground missile systems. The TOW 2B missiles target the tops of armored vehicles, enhancing Taiwan's defensive capabilities.
China strongly opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, urges withdrawal
China has demanded the immediate withdrawal of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, expressing strong opposition and lodging a formal complaint. The U.S. approved an $80 million sale of F-16 fighter jet parts to Taiwan, aiming to bolster its security and maintain regional stability. China vowed to enhance its military training to protect its sovereignty. Taiwan welcomed the deal, set to be finalized in July, as a boost to its air force's combat capabilities.
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Taiwan says US arms sale shows 'commitment to defence' against China
Taiwan has expressed gratitude to the US for approving two military sales worth approximately $300 million to Taiwan, mainly of spare and repair parts for its F-16 fighter jets. The US has remained Taiwan's most important partner and biggest arms supplier, sparking repeated condemnations from China. Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the approval and called on the Chinese Communist Party to stop irrational behaviours against Taiwan.
Tech stocks lift Nasdaq, S&P 500 as rate-cut expectations tick up
Nasdaq hits record intra-day high on tech rally, fueled by gains in Microsoft and Amazon. Investors remain cautious, weighing economic concerns against the possibility of earlier Fed rate cuts.
China stages mock missile strikes on Taiwan, jets with live missiles used in drills
China staged two-day military exercises involving mock missile strikes and bomber formations targeting Taiwan. These drills, launched after Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, took office, are seen as punishment for his pro-independence stance. The exercises included naval and air operations, testing China's ability to control key areas of Taiwan. Taiwan condemned the actions, mobilizing its forces in response. The U.S. Navy monitored the situation, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability. Despite the tension, life in Taiwan remained unaffected.
China sanctions defense-related US companies and executives over Russia, Taiwan
China claims the self-governed island as its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. It has long opposed any weapon sales by the U.S. to the island. While the U.S. does not recognize Taiwan as a country, Washington is obligated by a federal law to ensure the island's government has the means to defend itself.
If China invades Taiwan, ASML and TSMC can disable chip machines
ASML Holding NV and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. have measures in place to remotely disable chipmaking machines in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. The US government has expressed concerns about the impact of such an attack on the global semiconductor supply chain. ASML's advanced EUV machines are crucial in this scenario, with TSMC being a major client. The stakes are high as Taiwan produces around 90% of the world's most advanced chips.
China warns after Lai inauguration that Taiwan independence is 'dead end'
China warned on Monday that efforts toward Taiwan's independence are a "dead end" after the island's new President Lai Ching-te took office. Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and has threatened force to control it, labelled Lai a "dangerous separatist." Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin reiterated that Taiwan independence efforts are doomed to fail. Concurrently, Beijing imposed sanctions on three US defence companies over arms sales to Taipei and censored discussions of the inauguration on Chinese social media.
Donald Trump is supportive of AUKUS defence pact, former Australian PM says
Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison met with Donald Trump, who gave a positive response to the AUKUS defense pact, aimed at countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. Trump's stance on the pact remains unclear, potentially impacting Australia's acquisition of U.S. submarines. Current PM Albanese supports the pact's strategic importance.
US efforts to reshape global supply chains gather pace in Asia
President Joe Biden's tariff hikes on Chinese imports are reshaping Asian trade routes, with Taiwan's exports to the US surging over 80% in April.
Global chips battle intensifies with $81 billion subsidy surge
The concern over China’s rapid advances in key electronics turned into a full-scale panic during the pandemic because chip shortages emphasised the significance of these tiny devices for economic security.
A brief history of the 2,000-pound Mark 80 bombs central to U.S.-Israeli tensions
The Mark 84 is a 2,000-pound bomb, part of the Pentagon's Mark 80 series. President Biden delayed a shipment to Israel of these bombs amid concerns over their use in Gaza, where civilian casualties have occurred. Israel mainly acquires these bombs from the United States.
Why the US paused weapons shipment to Israel amid Gaza conflict
Amidst escalating violence in Gaza, the US has suspended a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel, citing concerns over civilian casualties. President Joe Biden emphasized the commitment to Israel's defense but stated that offensive weapons for densely populated areas would not be supplied. The decision comes amid a military assault in Rafah, raising questions about the impact of US arms in conflict zones. This development reflects a broader effort to balance support for allies with humanitarian considerations in conflict zones.
Israel due to get billions of dollars more in US weapons despite Biden pause
The Biden administration has paused a shipment of bombs to Israel and is reviewing other weapons sales, concerned about their potential use in attacks on civilians. This comes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where over 1 million civilians are seeking refuge. While Israel has been urged not to invade certain areas without safeguards, the delay in weapons approval has raised concerns. Biden's support for Israel has faced criticism, particularly among young Democrats, as he navigates the political landscape.
Taiwan detects nine Chinese military aircraft, five naval vessels around nation
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported nine Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels operating near Taiwan. In response, Taiwan deployed combat patrol aircraft, naval vessels, and coastal missile systems. This comes after Taiwan detected 26 Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels the previous day. Taiwan has intensified its "kill chain" weapon acquisition to enhance combat readiness. The Ministry highlighted efforts to share Indo-Pacific information with allies for a regionally integrated deterrence force.
China hints at retaliation after US President Biden signs Taiwan, TikTok legislation
China warns of retaliation after President Biden signs legislation supporting Taiwan's defense and requiring TikTok's Chinese owner to divest. The legislation includes a military aid package for Ukraine and Israel, with a separate bill banning TikTok if ByteDance doesn't divest. Taiwan welcomes the move, while China urges the U.S. not to implement it.
US-China talks start with warnings about misunderstandings and miscalculations
US-China discussions focus on concerns over increasing divisions and the importance of communication. Blinken and Wang address specific complaints, emphasizing the need for dialogue despite challenges in the relationship.
Xi tells Blinken US, China should be 'partners, not rivals'
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday told top US diplomat Antony Blinken that the world's biggest economies should be "partners, not rivals" as the two sides pressed for headway on a range of concerns. "The two countries should be partners, not rivals," Xi said.
Taiwan happy with US aid package, China objects to arms sales
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen expresses gratitude for the U.S. Congress passing a substantial foreign aid package, including arms support for Taiwan, amid China's opposition. The bills, approved by both chambers, signal continued U.S. backing for Taiwan, sparking tensions with Beijing, which demands an end to arms sales.
US House passes $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid package, sends to Senate
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $95 billion legislative package for security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, despite objections from some Republican members. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to pass next week. The package includes funding for Ukraine's conflict, Israel's humanitarian needs, and the Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy thanked U.S. lawmakers, saying the aid would help prevent the war from expanding and save lives. The bill also includes measures related to banning TikTok and transferring seized Russian assets to Ukraine.
Taiwan says it will discuss with US how to use new funding
The defence ministry expressed thanks to the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the package on Saturday, saying it demonstrated the "rock solid" U.S. support for Taiwan.
A look at what's in the $95 billion foreign aid package passed by the House
A look at what's in the $95 billion package passed by the House on Saturday that will provide military aid to Ukraine and Israel, replenish U.S. weapons systems and give humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. Senate passage is expected this coming week.
China sanctions 2 US defense companies and says they support arms sales to Taiwan
The announcement freezes the assets of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and General Dynamics Land Systems held within China. It also bars the companies' management from entering the country.
US approves additional bombs, warplanes sales to Israel
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant's recent visit to Washington underscored Israel's urgent requests for expedited weaponry, with Gen Charles Q Brown Jr, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledging Israel's persistent demands for critical military supplies. However, the US has exercised discretion in fulfilling these requests, citing capacity limits and strategic considerations.
Why is Japan changing its ban on exporting lethal weapons, and why is it so controversial?
Japan's Cabinet approved selling future fighter jets to other countries, marking a shift from its pacifist principles. The decision aims to boost Japan's arms industry and global influence. The new fighter jet, developed with Italy and the U.K., will enhance Japan's defense capabilities. The move is influenced by regional tensions and aims to strengthen Japan's military role.
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