May 2025 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Macron warns of potential impact of global 'double standards' on Taiwan CNA 31 May 2025 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday urged the international community to reject "double standards" in addressing global conflicts, warning that the outcome of the war in Ukraine could have consequences for Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific.
China attack on Taiwan would be devastating to world: U.S. defense chief CNA 31 May 2025 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on Saturday that any Chinese attempt to use force against Taiwan would have consequences far beyond the Indo-Pacific, calling for coordinated regional efforts to deter aggression and ensure stability.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 31 May 2025
China firmly opposes US arms sales to Taiwan island, says Chinese FM in response to reports US aims to sell weapons to Taiwan to level exceeding Trump's first term Global Times 30 May 2025 -- China firmly opposes US arms sales to the Taiwan island and urges the US to strictly adhere to the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, particularly the August 17 communiqué, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Friday.
Report: Trump aims to exceed first term's weapons sales to China Taipei Press TV 30 May 2025 -- US President Donald Trump has set a goal to exceed his first term's weapons sales to Chinese Taipei despite Beijing's condemnation of any relation between the two sides, particularly sending weapons, a report says.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 30 May 2025
Taiwanese man arrested in South Korea for filming NIS building CNA 30 May 2025 -- A Taiwanese man was arrested by South Korean police on Thursday for allegedly filming the interior of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) building.
Ministry of National Defense Statement on the PRC's Carrier Rocket Launch ROC MND 29 May 2025
NCSIST attack drone boat could enter combat evaluation in June: Source CNA 29 May 2025 -- An attack drone boat being developed by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) will likely enter combat evaluation in June, a source familiar with the matter told CNA on Thursday.
Douyin, RedNote seen as China's propaganda tools: MAC CNA 29 May 2025 -- There are growing suspicions that Chinese social media apps like Douyin and RedNote are being used by China in its united front propaganda efforts against Taiwan, Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正), head of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), said Thursday
Chinese defense ministry slams Lai's claim of strengthening defense to avoid war, warning DPP authorities pursuing 'Taiwan independence' will never end well Global Times 29 May 2025 -- When asked whether the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) will conduct counter-military exercises as it has in the past after Lai Ching-te claimed that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defense as preparing for war is best way to avoid it, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson from China's Ministry of National Defense, said on Thursday that as long as Lai's separatist acts continue, there will be no peace across the Taiwan Straits or for the compatriots in Taiwan.
MND spokesperson refutes US Indo-Pacific chief's remarks on Taiwan island, urging US to stop fanning flames Global Times 29 May 2025 -- When asked to comment on claims made by head of the US Indo-Pacific Command that the Chinese side was conducting comprehensive exercises in preparation for recovering Taiwan and was increasingly active in other regions of the Pacific, Chinese Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang said on Thursday that for the cross-Straits situation, there is no factor more destabilizing than the provocations made by the "Taiwan independence" separatists and the disruptions by foreign forces.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 29 May 2025
COVID-19 surges in Taiwan, expected to peak in June or July CNA 29 May 2025 -- The Ministry of Health and Welfare said Thursday that COVID-19 cases are on the rise, with the current wave expected to peak in late June or early July.
Chinese mainland affirms commitment to cross-Strait exchanges, cooperation People's Daily 29 May 2025 -- The Chinese mainland will continue to actively promote exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait to benefit compatriots on both sides, a mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday.
MND News References of Routine Press Conference on May 28, 2025 ROC MND 28 May 2025
Lai urges deeper Taiwan-U.S. ties, 'non-red' supply chain cooperation CNA 28 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday reiterated Taiwan's commitment to deepening economic ties with the United States, highlighting the island's desire to work with Washington in building a "non-red" supply chain.
American senator Duckworth in Taiwan as part of Indo-Pacific tour CNA 28 May 2025 -- United States Senator Tammy Duckworth is in Taiwan on her fourth visit since becoming a member of Congress in 2017, during which she will meet with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and other top officials to exchange views on regional security issues.
Taiwan says China using cultural summits for 'lectures,' not exchanges CNA 28 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Wednesday criticized China for holding two summits for Taiwanese participants later this week to "lecture" them rather than promote genuine cross-Taiwan Strait exchanges.
Taiwan Affairs Office condemns unfair treatment of mainland spouses in Taiwan, vows accountability for 'Taiwan independence' perpetrators Global Times 28 May 2025 -- When asked about the recent incidents of mainland spouses of Taiwan residents facing unfair treatment in the Taiwan island, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said compatriots from both sides of the Taiwan Straits share the same roots and are one family.
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson responds to Lai Ching-te's omission of cross-Straits relations in May 20 address Global Times 28 May 2025 -- In response to a question regarding Lai Ching-te's May 20 address, which made no mention of cross-Straits relations and instead focused on strengthening Taiwan-US ties, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that no matter whether the Taiwan region's leader addresses the topic or not, or what is said and how it is said, none of it can change the fact and status that Taiwan is a part of China, nor can it alter the direction and pace of the development of cross-Straits relations.
Mainland official slams the DPP for 'selling out' Taiwan to appease US Global Times 28 May 2025 -- A spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council on Wednesday slammed the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' shameless attempt to sell out Taiwan region's interests to appease the US, warning that continuously making concessions will lead to full exploitation of Taiwan by the US.
Mainland slams Rubio's claim on 'deterrence for China begins with Taiwan's own self-defense capabilities' Global Times 28 May 2025 -- When asked to comment on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's claim that "deterrence for China obviously begins with Taiwan's own self-defense capabilities," as well as US Indo-Pacific Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo's claims of "existing plans to deter and stop a military invasion from the Chinese mainland", and his advocacy for creating a "hellish scenario" in response, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said that some individuals in the US have ulterior motives to hype "China military threat" narrative.
Mainland spokesperson reiterates one-China principle after "merger" analogy by Taiwan leader People's Daily 28 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said China's sovereignty and territory have never been divided, and the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China has never changed.
Top political advisor urges joint efforts across Taiwan Strait to promote Chinese culture People's Daily 28 May 2025 -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning on Tuesday called for joint efforts across the Taiwan Strait to promote Chinese culture.
CGA vessels shadow 4 Chinese coast guard ships off Kinmen Islands CNA 28 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) said Wednesday that it "expelled" four Chinese coast guard ships that intruded into Taiwan-controlled waters off the nation's outlying Kinmen County earlier that day.
Taiwan monitors Chinese aircraft carrier ahead of reported drills CNA 28 May 2025 -- Taiwan's military said Wednesday it was closely monitoring the movements of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) near the island, after the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning (遼寧號) was spotted in waters off Taiwan amid reports of potential upcoming military drills.
Fujian coast guard conducts routine patrol of waters near Kinmen Global Times 28 May 2025 -- Fujian coast guard conducted a routine law enforcement patrol in the waters near Kinmen per the law on Wednesday, according to a spokesperson for a regional bureau of China Coast Guard.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 28 May 2025
Ministry of National Defense Statement on the PLA's Joint Combat Readiness Patrol ROC MND 28 May 2025
'No bottom line in currying favor with US, selling out Taiwan', mainland slams DPP increasing investment to 'make America great again' Global Times 28 May 2025 -- In response to a question about the recent claim of an official from Taiwan island, that Taiwan would further expand its investment in the US to help "make America great again," which has caused an uproar in public opinion on the island, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that this once again proves that the DPP authorities have no bottom line in currying favor with the US and selling out Taiwan.
State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson responds to US hype on mainland's 'ability to invade Taiwan' by 2027 Global Times 28 May 2025 -- When asked about comments on US' claim that the mainland could have "the ability to invade Taiwan" as early as 2027 and the demand by head of Taiwan defense authorities that Taiwan's armed forces must reach a high level of combat readiness by 2027, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office Chen Binhua said on Wednesday that the DPP authorities, in pursuit of political self-interest, have been toeing the US line in turning Taiwan island into a "powder keg" and provoking confrontation, thereby pushing Taiwan compatriots into peril. Their sinister intentions are laid bare. No matter how the situation changes on the island or how external forces meddle, nothing can stop the historic trend that China will be and must be reunified.
Celebrities' recognition of Chinese culture 'sincere expression', mainland official slams DPP's distortion Global Times 28 May 2025 -- Commenting on claims by Taiwan island's so-called "mainland affairs council" that many celebrities from Taiwan are acting out of necessity rather than voluntarily, and that they will not allow these celebrities to be manipulated by the mainland, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that when Taiwan celebrities express their recognition of Chinese culture and the idea that people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits are one family, it is a sincere expression of emotion, and it is their freedom and right.
U.S. congressional delegation visits Taiwan CNA 27 May 2025 -- A delegation from the United States House of Representatives, led by Bruce Westerman (R-AR), chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, began a three-day visit to Taiwan on Tuesday as part of a broader tour of the Indo-Pacific.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 27 May 2025
COVID-19 cases double in Taiwan, marking 7th weekly surge: CDC CNA 27 May 2025 -- Over 40,000 people sought medical treatment for COVID-19 in Taiwan last week, more than double the previous week's figure and the seventh consecutive weekly increase, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday.
Software problems cause signal anomalies in HIMAR tests: Army CNA 26 May 2025 -- Two instances of "signal anomalies" during a recent test firing of missiles using the U.S.-made M142 high mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS) were due to a fire control computer malfunction rather than Chinese signal jamming, the Army said Monday.
Taiwan-China interactions continue despite stalled talks: MAC head CNA 26 May 2025 -- Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) head Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) said Monday that Taiwan and China still maintain some level of interaction, even though official dialogue has stalled.
Taiwan minister calls air base images on Chinese platform 'composites' CNA 26 May 2025 -- Aerial photos of Hualien Air Base that appeared recently in a video on Chinese social media were digitally composed images and not taken by a drone that flew over the military base, Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) said Monday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 26 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 25 May 2025
Taiwan's determination to join WHO, WHA unwavering: Lai CNA 24 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said on Saturday that Taiwan's determination to join the World Health Organization (WHO) and participate in the World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO's decision-making body, is unwavering, despite cuts to the central government budget and the U.S. intention to withdraw from the organization.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 24 May 2025
INTERVIEW/Taiwan military boosts readiness amid rising China threat: Defense minister CNA 23 May 2025 -- Taiwan's armed forces are focused on combat readiness as a core element of deterrence in response to growing threats from China, Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo (顧立雄) told CNA.
China protests Japan's detention of Taiwan island's fishing boat; urges it to prevent recurrence: FM spokesperson Global Times 23 May 2025 -- A fishing vessel named Hongcaitou No.6 from the Taiwan island was recently detained by a Japanese patrol vessel on the grounds of violating fisheries regulations and was only released after paying a hefty bail.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 23 May 2025
New U.S. bill seeks 'NATO Plus' status for Taiwan CNA 22 May 2025 -- U.S. Congress members Rick Scott and Scott Perry introduced a new bill on Wednesday, seeking to designate Taiwan as a "NATO Plus" partner of the United States to facilitate easier and faster arms sales.
Defense ministry closely monitoring China's live-fire drills CNA 22 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said late Wednesday that it was keeping close track of China's live-fire exercises being held in waters off the southeastern Chinese coastal city of Shantou.
Lin Chia-lung's remarks reveals arrogance, ignorance: FM spokesperson Global Times 22 May 2025 -- In response to a media inquiry regarding comments made on Wednesday by the head of Taiwan's external affairs authorities, Lin Chia-lung, who claimed that Taiwan can decide on its own whether it is a country, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Thursday that Taiwan has never been a country. She said that such remarks only reveal a certain individual's arrogance and ignorance and constitute a blatant provocation.
US lawmakers press hotel giants over 'Taiwan, China' label Radio Free Asia 22 May 2025 -- Two U.S. lawmakers are taking aim at three major U.S. hotel chains for using the term "Taiwan, China" on their websites and promotional materials, saying it implies that the self-ruling island is part of China and undermines Taiwanese democracy.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 22 May 2025
Political cohesion on national security necessary: Security Chief Radio Taiwan International 21 May 2025 -- Taiwan's National Security Bureau (NSB) Director-General Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) on Wednesday warned that China's military expansion in the region is intensifying.
INTERVIEW/U.S., Taiwan drone cooperation boosts security, industry: AIT director CNA 21 May 2025 -- The United States and Taiwan cooperate in three key areas to develop drone technology, not only to enhance deterrence across the Taiwan Strait but also to grow the industry, American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Director Raymond Greene, said Tuesday.
FM reaffirms ties with allies, enhanced dealings with non-allies CNA 21 May 2025 -- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said Wednesday that Taiwan's relations with all of its 12 diplomatic allies remain stable despite the fact that two of them sent representative to a forum in Beijing last week.
INTERVIEW/AIT director optimistic about Taiwan-U.S. tariff talks CNA 21 May 2025 -- Raymond Greene, the de facto U.S. ambassador to Taiwan, has expressed optimism about trade negotiations between Taipei and Washington that were prompted by Trump's announcement of sweeping import duties on America's trading partners.
Breaking with precedent, no mention of Taiwan by U.S. at WHA CNA 21 May 2025 -- United States Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. did not mention Taiwan in his pre-recorded speech Tuesday at the World Health Assembly (WHA), ending support for Taiwan's participation at the WHA by the U.S. representative since 2017.
China must see invading Taiwan as not worth the cost: Marco Rubio CNA 21 May 2025 -- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said at a U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing Tuesday (U.S. time) that deterring a conflict initiated by China over Taiwan requires making the cost "more than what it's worth" for Beijing.
Chinese exercises around Taiwan invasion 'rehearsals': U.S. commander CNA 21 May 2025 -- The head of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, has warned that on-and-off Chinese military exercises around Taiwan are not drills but "rehearsals" for a potential invasion and that China is on "a dangerous course."
China accused of pressuring Solomon Islands minister to quit IPAC CNA 21 May 2025 -- A civil anti-corruption group in the Solomon Islands has suggested China influenced local media to exert political pressure leading to the withdrawal of a government minister from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), a coalition critical of China and supportive of Taiwan.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 21 May 2025
DPP expels 5 members over alleged Chinese espionage CNA 21 May 2025 -- The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has expelled five members accused of spying for China, a move that aims to "uphold party discipline and safeguard national security," the party's Central Evaluation Committee chairman said Wednesday.
Mainland criticizes Lai's "hypocritical gesture" People's Daily 21 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Tuesday called Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's proposal of cross-Strait dialogue "on equal terms" a hypocritical gesture attempting to revive dialogue based on his new "two states" theory.
South Africa downgrades Taiwan status, signaling more China influence, say experts Radio Free Asia 20 May 2025 -- In a sign of China's expanding international influence, South Africa has downgraded the status of Taiwan's liaison office in the country, further diminishing the democratic island's diplomatic footprint, experts say.
Lai thanks Palau for support amid Taiwan's WHA exclusion CNA 20 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday thanked Palau for its continued support of Taiwan's international participation, as Taipei was once again excluded from the World Health Assembly (WHA) currently taking place in Switzerland.
President Lai calls for opposition talks as political discord grows CNA 20 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday proposed holding talks with opposition party leaders amid protracted tensions and disputes between his administration and the opposition-led Legislature.
Full text of President Lai's address on 1st anniversary of taking office CNA 20 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday delivered an address marking the first anniversary of his presidency.
President Lai highlights sense of threat in 1st foreign TV interview CNA 20 May 2025 -- In his first foreign television interview since taking office one year ago, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) highlighted the sense of threat that China was posing to the world.
Taiwan left out of WHA for 9th straight year after ally proposal fails CNA 20 May 2025 -- A proposal by Taiwan's diplomatic allies to invite Taiwan to this year's World Health Assembly (WHA) was rejected as expected on Monday, ensuring Taipei's absence from the annual world health meeting for a ninth consecutive year.
Lai calls Beijing 'aggressor' threatening peace CNA 20 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday called out China for threatening peace across the Taiwan Strait, despite reiterating his openness to engaging in dialogue with Beijing.
Mainland comments on Taiwan leader's speeches involving cross-Straits relations as duplicity doomed to failure Global Times 20 May 2025 -- In response to a question concerning that Taiwan region's leader delivered a speech today marking the first anniversary of assuming office and gave interviews to media after the speech, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, stated that "Taiwan independence" activities are utterly incompatible with peace in the Straits, and that confrontation runs counter to dialogue and communication.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 20 May 2025
Mainland spokesperson says WHA rejection of Taiwan-related proposal reflects international consensus People's Daily 20 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Monday said a recent decision by the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) once again proved that the one-China principle is a universal consensus of the international community.
Mainland slams DPP for disrupting cultural exchanges across Taiwan Strait People's Daily 20 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Monday slammed the recent move of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to target certain performing artists from Taiwan who support closer cross-Strait relations.
WHA again rejects Taiwan province proposal People's Daily 20 May 2025 -- The World Health Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization, on Monday decided not to include in its agenda a proposal on the participation of China's Taiwan province in the annual assembly as an observer.
WHA rejects Taiwan-related proposal for ninth consecutive year Global Times 19 May 2025 -- The World Health Assembly (WHA), the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), decided on Monday not to include in its agenda a proposal on Taiwan's participation as an observer, according to the Xinhua News Agency. Following the decision, a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement on Monday, saying that this marks the ninth consecutive year that the WHA has rejected such Taiwan-related proposals.
Chinse FM spokesperson responds to World Health Assembly's rejection of Taiwan region's participation as an observer Global Times 19 May 2025 -- The World Health Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization, decided on Monday not to include in its agenda a proposal on Taiwan's participation as an observer, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Chinse FM spokesperson responds to World Health Assembly's rejection of Taiwan region's participation as an observer Global Times 19 May 2025 -- The World Health Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization, decided on Monday not to include in its agenda a proposal on Taiwan's participation as an observer, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on the 78th WHA's Rejection of the Proposal on Taiwan PRC MND 19 May 2025 -- On May 19, the General Committee and the Plenary Session of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) respectively decided to reject the so-called proposal of "inviting Taiwan to participate in the WHA as an observer" submitted by certain countries.
8 diplomatic offices voice support for Taiwan's WHA participation CNA 19 May 2025 -- Eight countries' representative offices in Taiwan issued a joint statement on Monday, reiterating their support for Taiwan's meaningful engagement with the World Health Organization (WHO) and for Taipei's participation as an observer at the World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision making body of the WHO.
11 Taiwan allies attend Geneva reception in support of WHA bid CNA 19 May 2025 -- Representatives from 11 of Taiwan's diplomatic allies attended a reception held Sunday in Geneva in support of Taiwan, after it was once again excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual decision-making meeting.
Lai calls Beijing 'aggressor' threatening peace CNA 19 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday called out China for threatening peace across the Taiwan Strait, despite reiterating his openness to engaging in dialogue with Beijing.
Mainland slams Taiwan's DPP for targeting artists supporting reunification Global Times 19 May 2025 -- In response to a question about the recent statement from the Taiwan island's so-called "mainland affairs council" that Taiwan artists, including Ouyang Nana and over 20 others, would be subjected to administrative scrutiny if they made or shared messages opposing "Taiwan independence" and promoting reunification, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Monday that in recent years, an increasing number of Taiwan artists have come to the mainland to pursue their careers.
Solomon Islands reaffirms steadfast commitment to one-China principle in govt statement Global Times 19 May 2025 -- The Solomon Islands' Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed the government's steadfast commitment to the one-China principle, which recognizes the People's Republic of China as the sole legal representative of China, according to a statement released on the website of the government of the Solomon Islands.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 19 May 2025
Ministry of National Defense Statement on the PLA's Joint Combat Readiness Patrol ROC MND 18 May 2025
Taiwan enters 'nuclear-free homeland' era CNA 18 May 2025 -- Taiwan's last operational nuclear reactor was shut down Saturday as its 40-year operating license expired, turning Taiwan into the "nuclear-free homeland" that anti-nuclear campaigners had long hoped for.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 18 May 2025
President Lai rejects opposition parties' China policy CNA 17 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) nixed the idea that cross-Taiwan Strait dialogue could be based on cooperation with Taiwan's opposition parties, as the different parties pursue fundamentally different approaches to China.
Tsai urges democracies to unite amid rising authoritarian aggression CNA 17 May 2025 -- Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) has urged democracies around the world to be "even more united" against growing authoritarian threats, while highlighting U.S. President Donald Trump's push for allies to be more responsible for their security.
Representative name of 'Taipei Commercial Office' removed from official website of South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation Global Times 17 May 2025 -- The South African government has recently requested that Taiwan relocate its representative office from Pretoria, the administrative capital, and has taken further actions in this regard.
US lawmakers push bill to codify 'Six Assurances' to Taiwan, 'political stunt to deceive DPP' Global Times 17 May 2025 -- In another provocative move aimed at undermining China's sovereignty and regional stability, US House of Representatives members on Thursday local time proposed a bipartisan bill to codify the so-called "Six Assurances" to Taiwan. Experts reached by the Global Times slammed the move as a deliberate attempt by some US politicians to revive the long-debunked notion that "Taiwan's status is undetermined" as well as a political stunt to deceive secessionist DPP authorities.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 17 May 2025
U.S. representatives introduce bill to codify 'Six Assurances' CNA 16 May 2025 -- A bipartisan group of United States representatives has introduced a bill to codify the "Six Assurances" as official U.S. policy.
South Africa steps up pressure on Taiwan office; minister blames China CNA 16 May 2025 -- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) on Friday accused China of being behind South Africa's latest decision to unilaterally change the contact information of Taiwan's representative office in the African nation.
Taiwan says WHA exclusion would be a 'loss for the world' CNA 16 May 2025 -- Taiwan's foreign and health ministers said Friday it would be a "loss for the world" if the country is left out of next week's World Health Assembly (WHA) for the ninth year in a row.
Taiwan region not approved to take part in World Health Assembly People's Daily 16 May 2025 -- China has decided not to approve the Taiwan region's participation in the 78th World Health Assembly, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday in response to reports that the region has again failed to receive an invitation to the gathering this year.
China's decision of not approving Taiwan region's participation in 78th WHA has global support People's Daily 16 May 2025 -- China's decision of not approving the Taiwan region's participation in the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) has wide support and understanding from the international community, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Thursday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 16 May 2025
U.S. senators introduce bill to streamline arms sales to Taiwan CNA 15 May 2025 -- Two United States senators have introduced legislation to streamline arms sales to Taiwan by adopting similar rules as those used for "NATO Plus" countries.
INTERVIEW/Polish defense experts urge Taiwan to raise defense budget CNA 15 May 2025 -- Two Polish defense experts said Wednesday that Taiwan should follow Poland's example by significantly increasing its defense budget and investing in affordable military technology such as unmanned aerial vehicles to better prepare for a potential Chinese invasion.
DPP files for constitutional review of budget, fiscal allocation law CNA 15 May 2025 -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) caucus on Thursday filed a petition for a constitutional interpretation of the 2025 Central Government General Budget Proposal and revisions to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures.
Tsai calls for more Taiwan-U.K. collaboration in 'testing time for democracy' CNA 15 May 2025 -- Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) called for more collaboration between Taiwan and the United Kingdom, especially when it comes to countering security threats from foreign forces, during a visit to the British Parliament on Thursday.
Taiwan probing entertainers allegedly spreading Chinese propaganda CNA 15 May 2025 -- A senior Taiwanese cross-strait affairs official said Thursday that his agency has identified more than 20 entertainers who could be guilty of spreading Chinese propaganda and might face punishment.
Taiwan regional leader distorts WWII history, spreads deceitful rhetoric: Chinese defense ministry spokesperson Global Times 15 May 2025 -- China's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday strongly criticized Taiwan's regional leader Lai Ching-te, who claimed that "Taiwan and Europe now face threats from a new authoritarian bloc." The ministry's spokesperson said that Lai distorted WWII history and spread deceitful rhetoric.
Chinese side decides not to approve Taiwan region's attendance at WHA due to DPP's separatist stance: FM Global Times 15 May 2025 -- Asked to comment on media inquiries on Taiwan region has not received an invitation to the WHA's 78th annual assembly scheduled to open on May 19, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday Chinese side's position on the participation of China's Taiwan region in international organizations, including the WHO, is consistent and clear — it must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle.
Mainland slams DPP's push for "non-red supply chain" in semiconductor industry People's Daily 15 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday condemned Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te for advocating the establishment of a so-called global "non-red supply chain" in the semiconductor sector, accusing him of promoting economic decoupling across the Taiwan Strait and kowtowing to the United States.
Mainland spokesperson slams Lai Ching-te for distorting WWII history People's Daily 15 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Lai Ching-te for distorting World War II history in his recent remarks and attempting to equate the just history of anti-fascism and anti-aggression in World War II with the evil deeds of the Democratic Progressive Party seeking to split the country.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 15 May 2025
MOFA plays down allies' attendance at Beijing forum CNA 14 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has played down the attendance of two of Taiwan's formal diplomatic allies at an international forum in Beijing, which sparked fears of a possible rupture in relations.
Taiwan Affairs Office responds to diplomats from Haiti, Saint Lucia participating China-CELAC Forum Global Times 14 May 2025 -- Diplomats from Haiti and Saint Lucia, two so-called "diplomatic allies" of Taiwan island participated the fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum, which triggered heated discussion in Taiwan.
Mainland spokesperson slams Lai over 'selective amnesia' and whitewash on Japanese colonial atrocities in Taiwan Global Times 14 May 2025 -- Lai Ching-te, regional leader of the island of Taiwan, disregarded historical facts and completely ignored the suffering endured by the Taiwan people, instead, he fervently glossed over and beautified Japan's colonial rule, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, stated on Wednesday after Lai recently remarked that the relationship between Taiwan region and Japan is not merely that of friends, but rather like that of family—a remark that drew criticism in the island of Taiwan for his selective amnesia regarding the painful history of atrocities committed against the Taiwan people during the Japanese colonial period.
Mainland official slams DPP's Lai for distorting World War II history Global Times 14 May 2025 -- A spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office on Wednesday slammed Taiwan's regional leader Lai Ching-te for distorting World War II history in his recent remarks and attempting to equate the just history of anti-fascism and anti-aggression in World War II with the evil deeds of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in seeking to split the country.
'Taiwan independence' is a dead end, outsiders unreliable: Mainland spokesperson Global Times 14 May 2025 -- When asked to comment on a recent survey released by Taiwan's Academia Sinica, which found that 100 days into US President Donald Trump's term, 46.7 percent of people in Taiwan island felt pessimistic about the future of the relations with the US, 60 percent were concerned that the US might harm Taiwan's interests by reaching a deal with Chinese mainland, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that more and more people in Taiwan were realizing that "Taiwan independence" was a dead end, that outsiders were unreliable, and that the US always prioritized "America First."
Mainland spokesperson responds to Trump's 'unification' remarks, urges intl community to support just cause against 'Taiwan independence' Global Times 14 May 2025 -- In response to a media inquiry on US President Donald Trump's remarks related to "unification" when commenting on the ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China, which have drawn high attention in the Taiwan island, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said that "we have taken note of the relevant reports."
Root cause for complexity across Taiwan Straits lies in DPP's refusal to acknowledge 1992 Consensus and colluding with external forces: mainland spokesperson Global Times 14 May 2025 -- Commenting on an article by US scholars urging the Trump administration to "rein in Taiwan" and make clear to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities that Washington opposes any moves toward independence, a mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday that root cause for the current complex and severe situation across the Taiwan Straits is DPP's refusal to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle, while colluding with external forces to pursue separatist provocations.
Mainland spokesperson responds to DPP authorities' Patriot missiles procurement, forming of combat units to defend 'Greater Taipei area' Global Times 14 May 2025 -- In response to growing public concern in Taiwan that Lai Ching-te is preparing to desert the island in face of a potential conflict — following media reports that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have rushed to procure Patriot missiles, mobilized marine units to defend the "Greater Taipei area," and conducted multiple drills purportedly in response to "People's Liberation Army (PLA) attacks on Taiwan" — Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, stated at a regular press conference on Wednesday that no amount of weapons purchases or military exercises can alter the dead-end path of "Taiwan independence" or reverse the historical trend toward national reunification.
DPP authorities' attempt to build 'non-red' supply chain serves its decoupling agenda, exposing its subservience to the US: spokesperson Global Times 14 May 2025 -- Slamming Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Lai Ching-te's recent claim that he advocated for the establishment a of a "non-red supply chain" for global semiconductors that excludes the Chinese mainland, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Wednesday that the attempt aims to decouple from the Chinese mainland and sever cross-Straits economic ties.
Mainland spokesperson slams Lai Ching-te's labeling of mainland as 'external hostile force' Global Times 14 May 2025 -- The Chinese mainland strongly condemned the recent remarks by Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te, who referred to the mainland as a "hostile external force" under the island's so-called anti-infiltration act during a media interview.
Chinese mainland slams Lai Ching-te as "saboteur of cross-Strait peace" People's Daily 14 May 2025 -- The Chinese mainland on Wednesday said that Lai Ching-te's actions since taking office as Taiwan's leader have fully proven that he is a "saboteur of peace" and a "crisis maker" across the Taiwan Strait.
Mainland spokesperson slams Taiwan for erasing 'Han Chinese' label, calls de-sinicization move 'absurd and laughable' Global Times 14 May 2025 -- A mainland spokesperson has sharply criticized on Wednesday the recent move by the Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to remove the term of people of the Han ethnic group from a population description on its official demographic data, replacing it with "other."
Mainland slams DPP's "de-Sinicization" attempts in altering demographic terms People's Daily 14 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday condemned attempts by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to push "de-Sinicization" and sever the historical and cultural ties between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan's DPP faces widespread criticism for rebranding local ethnic Han people People's Daily 14 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have drawn intense criticism after reclassifying people of the Han ethnic group as the island's "other" population in its official demographic data.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 14 May 2025
Ministry of National Defense Press Release on the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Carrier Rocket Launch ROC MND 13 May 2025
Taiwan to receive 42 more M1A2T tanks by 2nd quarter: MND CNA 13 May 2025 -- Taiwan's military will receive a second batch of 42 M1A2T tanks by the second quarter of 2025, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) has confirmed.
State Department walks back Trump's 'unification' remark CNA 13 May 2025 -- The United States State Department on Monday reaffirmed that U.S. policy on Taiwan has not changed after President Donald Trump used the word "unification" in commenting on recent trade talks with China.
Tsai urges joint efforts with Lithuania, EU on undersea cable damage CNA 13 May 2025 -- Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) has called for greater cooperation between Taiwan, Lithuania, and the European Union to address attacks on undersea cables and other critical infrastructure that threaten their information security.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 13 May 2025
FM spokesperson refutes DPP authorities' "Taiwan independence" fallacy People's Daily 13 May 2025 -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday that Taiwan had never been and never would be a country.
Taiwan Expresses Intent to Support Ukraine Demining Efforts Lithuania MND 12 May 2025 -- Representatives from the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence and the Defence Material Agency held talks with the Taiwanese Representative Office in Vilnius regarding support for Ukraine
Taiwan test fires new U.S.-supplied rocket system for first time Radio Free Asia 12 May 2025 -- Taiwan's military test-fired for the first time on Monday a new U.S.-supplied rocket system intended to stiffen its defenses against China.
Taiwan conducts first live-fire drill of U.S.-supplied HIMARS CNA 12 May 2025 -- Taiwan's military conducted its first live-firing of the U.S.-supplied high mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS) at a base in Pingtung County on Monday.
Scholar urges Taiwan to enhance ties with democracies other than U.S. CNA 12 May 2025 -- A scholar from the United Kingdom on Monday urged Taiwan to strengthen its economic and trade ties with major global powers beyond the United States, given the uncertainties and challenges arising from Donald Trump's return to the White House.
'De-Han-ification'? Executive Yuan webpage edit sparks controversy CNA 12 May 2025 -- Updates to an Executive Yuan webpage on ethnic groups in Taiwan sparked a minor culture war over the weekend, after what critics said was a deliberate attempt to obscure the Han Chinese ethnicity of most Taiwanese.
Taiwan companies 'critical' to Trump's re-industrialization goals: AIT CNA 12 May 2025 -- Raymond Greene, director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), said Sunday at an investment summit that Taiwanese companies will be "critical" to the achievement of President Donald Trump's goal of re-industrializing the United States.
2 holders of Chinese ID cards found in Taiwan's public service: MAC CNA 12 May 2025 -- Two public servants were identified as holders of Chinese ID cards, while 75 were found to have residence certificates issued by China, during the first phase of an investigation, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Monday.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 12 May 2025
Ministry of National Defense Statement on the PLA's Joint Combat Readiness Patrol ROC MND 11 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 11 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 10 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 09 May 2025
INTERVIEW/Measures being prepared to counter Chinese espionage: Cho CNA 09 May 2025 -- Preparations for measures to tackle espionage, infiltration, propaganda and other national security threats from China are under way, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said Friday.
Cabinet approves NT$8.8 billion plan to enhance cybersecurity resilience CNA 08 May 2025 -- The Cabinet on Thursday approved a four-year plan to spend NT$8.8 billion (US$290.6 million) to strengthen the country's cybersecurity resilience.
MAC defends military med school rejection of China-born student CNA 08 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Thursday defended a decision by the military-run National Defense Medical Center (NDMC) to revoke the admission of a China-born student, citing the applicant's failure to meet the requirement of having held household registration in Taiwan for at least 20 years.
Secessionists' words and deeds cannot alter fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, says FM on Lai Ching-te's rhetoric Global Times 08 May 2025 -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities consistently use "democracy and freedom" as a pretext to conceal their "Taiwan independence" separatist agenda. No matter what they say or do, they cannot alter the historical and legal fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory, nor can they change the international community's prevailing consensus on upholding the one-China principle, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday.
Spies in DPP government expose weaknesses in vetting system for aides CNA 08 May 2025 -- Recent discoveries of people within the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government spying for China have exposed potential flaws in Taiwan's security vetting system and highlighted the difficulties involved in fixing them.
Taiwan, Estonia sign MOUs on aerospace, defense collaboration CNA 08 May 2025 -- A Taiwanese business delegation has signed two memoranda of understanding (MOU) with Estonia to facilitate collaboration between the aerospace and defense industries on the two sides, according to the Taipei Mission in the Republic of Latvia.
U.S. senators reintroduce Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act CNA 08 May 2025 -- Two United States senators have reintroduced the Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act, which they said aims to reaffirm U.S. policy to support Taiwan's democracy and international engagement amid China's increasing diplomatic and military aggression.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 08 May 2025
Taiwan at center of 'one-theater' defense concept: Former Japanese general CNA 07 May 2025 -- A former Japanese defense officer said Wednesday Taiwan is at the center of a new "one-theater" defense concept, which Japan reportedly proposed to the United States earlier this year in response to growing security challenges posed by China.
Growing number of Taiwanese want bigger defense budget: Poll CNA 07 May 2025 -- Fifty-one percent of Taiwanese support increasing Taiwan's defense budget, including 44 percent in favor of a "significant increase," a recent survey commissioned by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) has found.
Xi says trend of China's reunification is unstoppable People's Daily 07 May 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday that the historical trend that China will and must achieve reunification is unstoppable.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 07 May 2025
Ministry of National Defense Press Release on the Case of a Graduating Student Disqualified from Military Academy Application Due to Not Meeting the 20-Year Residency Requirement ROC MND 07 May 2025
At least 5,000 more reservists to participate in Han Kuang drills: MND CNA 06 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Tuesday it will increase the number of reservists called up to its largest annual drills by over 5,000, in line with its policy goal to boost the combat readiness of the country's reserve force.
President Lai addresses Taiwan dollar rise, reassures public on trade talks CNA 06 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) reassured the public that recent rapid appreciation of the Taiwan dollar against the U.S. dollar was primarily caused by market speculation in conjunction with Taiwan-U.S. talks on tariffs, but his administration would safeguard national interests in negotiations.
U.S. House passes bills on Taiwan engagement, int'l participation CNA 06 May 2025 -- The U.S. House of Representatives on Monday passed two Taiwan-related bills aimed at easing limits on bilateral engagement and supporting Taiwan's participation in international organizations.
MND News References of Routine Press Conference on May 6, 2025 ROC MND 06 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 06 May 2025
Reshuffle to create 'fighting-style' Cabinet 'pure speculation': Lee CNA 05 May 2025 -- Taiwan's government on Monday denied reports that it plans to form a "fighting-style Cabinet" after May 20 in response to the ongoing recall election campaign that has dominated news headlines in recent months.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 05 May 2025
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 04 May 2025
Taiwan prioritized by U.S. for tariff talks: Lawmaker delegation CNA 03 May 2025 -- Taiwan is among the first four countries that the United States will negotiate with on the tariffs it wants to impose, according to Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), a member of a visiting delegation of Taiwanese lawmakers in Washington D.C.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 03 May 2025
Over 40% of Taiwanese doubt U.S. security support under Trump: Survey CNA 02 May 2025 -- More than 40 percent of Taiwanese people believe the United States' commitment to protect Taiwan will decrease during U.S. President Donald Trump's second term in office, compared to that of his predecessor, according to a survey by Academia Sinica, Taiwan's top research institution.
Taiwan-Japan cooperation necessary amid global challenges: Nakasone CNA 02 May 2025 -- Collaboration between Taiwan and Japan on economic and maritime security is necessary, visiting Japanese House of Representatives member Yasutaka Nakasone said Friday.
No industry will be sacrificed in U.S. tariff talks: President Lai CNA 02 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Friday assured Taiwanese industries that no sector would be sacrificed in ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States, pledging to safeguard national interests and preserve space for industrial development.
Taiwan legislators talk chips at U.S. Commerce Department CNA 02 May 2025 -- A delegation of Taiwanese lawmakers met with American officials in Washington, D.C. on Thursday to discuss several issues, including the flow of chips made in Taiwan, according to Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), one of the lawmakers.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 02 May 2025
Air Force launches probe into fighter jet's misfiring of flare CNA 01 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Air Force said Thursday that it was investigating the accidental firing of a flare from one of its Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) jets the previous day.
Swarms of Chinese warplanes detected Wednesday near Taiwan: MND CNA 01 May 2025 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday that a large number of Chinese military aircraft were detected near Taiwan on Wednesday, during a "joint combat readiness patrol" drill held by China.
Taiwan to send team to Geneva despite no invitation to WHA event CNA 01 May 2025 -- Taiwan has not yet received an invitation to attend the World Health Assembly (WHA) set to take place in Geneva from May 19-27, but will still send a WHA Action Team in keeping with past efforts to engage in global public health affairs, Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源) said Thursday.
Lai meets Japan delegation, calls for closer security, semiconductor ties CNA 01 May 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Thursday met with a visiting delegation from the Youth Division of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) at the Presidential Office, with both sides calling for increased collaborations on security and semiconductors.
Mainland spokesperson slams DPP's distortion of UNGA Resolution 2758 People's Daily 01 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday noted that Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities had deliberately misinterpreted United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 to serve their "Taiwan independence" agenda.
Taiwan people increasingly recognize that U.S. is harming Taiwan: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 01 May 2025 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said the people of Taiwan were becoming increasingly aware of the harm inflicted by the United States and that the island is being led to ruin by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 01 May 2025

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May 2025 - Taiwan Special Weapons News