Taiwan reaffirms its independent status after Trump’s warning

Saturday 16 May 2026 - 08:30

Taiwanese authorities reaffirmed the island’s status as an independent and sovereign nation following recent comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

In an official statement released on Saturday, Taiwan’s foreign ministry declared that the island operates as a democratic and self-governing state that is not under the authority of the People's Republic of China. Officials also stressed that relations with the United States remain stable under Washington’s long-standing policies toward the region.

The response came after Donald Trump warned against any formal declaration of independence by Taiwan, suggesting that such a move could increase the risk of military conflict with China. During a televised interview, the American president called for reducing tensions between Taipei and Beijing and emphasized the importance of maintaining regional stability.

Taiwanese officials also defended ongoing security cooperation with the United States, including military and defense agreements designed to strengthen deterrence and regional security. The island continues to rely on international partnerships as concerns grow over military activity in the Taiwan Strait.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated Beijing’s position that Taiwan remains one of China’s provinces. Chinese authorities have repeatedly stated that they prefer peaceful reunification but reserve the option of using force if necessary.

The issue of Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive topics in relations between China and the United States, with both sides seeking to avoid a direct confrontation while defending their strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region.