New Taiwan opposition leader criticises US defence demands

The new chairperson of Taiwan’s opposition Kuomintang party, Cheng Li-wen, has spoken out against US pressure urging Taipei to increase military spending to deter China.

“Taiwan isn't an ATM -- we really don't have that much money. We certainly have the determination to defend Taiwan, but it's not a blank cheque. That's why I said we must have a reasonable defence budget,” Caliber.Az quotes Cheng as saying in an interview with AFP.

President Ching-te plans to raise Taiwan’s defence budget to 3.32% of GDP in 2026 and 5% by 2030, allocating additional funds to air defence systems and ammunition production.

However, the parliament, controlled by the opposition led by Cheng, has already blocked part of the proposed spending, arguing that excessive US pressure could drag Taiwan into a “pointless arms race.”

Cheng also emphasised the need to resume dialogue with China, noting that the current status quo between Taipei and Beijing “cannot remain unchanged forever.”

She expressed readiness for a potential meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stressing that Taiwan’s priority should be “reconciliation and peace.”

Cheng began her political career with the Democratic Progressive Party before joining the Kuomintang in 2005.

She was the sole female contender in the October 18 elections, which were marred by accusations of Chinese interference.

Following her victory, Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message urging both sides to “advance national reunification.”

After three consecutive presidential defeats, Cheng stressed that the KMT “cannot afford to lose again” in 2028.

By Jeyhun Aghazada