US Republican Senators push annual $2 Billion in Military aid for Taiwan

US Republican lawmakers have introduced a bill to provide the armed forces of Taiwan with $2 billion in yearly aid to bolster the island’s defensive capabilities amid increasing tensions with China.

The assistance would come in the form of Foreign Military Financing, allowing the Asian nation to spend that amount to purchase high-powered weapons and equipment developed and produced in the US until 2032.

According to the bill’s lead sponsor, Senator Jim Risch, Taiwan’s defense is critical to the future security of the entire Indo-Pacific region. “This funding is contingent on Taiwan’s commitment to further advance initiatives championed by President Tsai to build a credible defense,” he explained, as quoted by The Hill.

If the legislation passes the Senate, an assessment would be conducted every year to evaluate Taiwan’s military preparedness, especially against China, which claims the island as part of its territory.