The United States should substantially reduce its military support of Taiwan. (Essay)

Introduction

The United States has maintained a significant military relationship with Taiwan since the late 20th century, primarily aimed at enhancing the island's defense capabilities against potential aggression from the People's Republic of China (PRC). This relationship has evolved since the establishment of the "One China" policy in 1979, which formally recognized Beijing's claims over Taiwan while allowing the U.S. to continue providing military support through training programs and arms sales. Despite the withdrawal of officially recognized U.S. troops from Taiwan, informal military cooperation persists, underscoring the U.S.'s commitment to Taiwan's self-defense

U.S. military involvement in Taiwan includes the deployment of small contingents of American troops for training purposes, particularly in areas such as air defense and maritime operations. This support is formalized under the Taiwan Relations Act, which mandates U.S. assistance to bolster Taiwan's defensive capabilities. Recent reports suggest an increased American military presence on the island, including the training of Taiwanese forces by U.S. Marines and the involvement of special operations units in advanced warfare training

The strategic implications of U.S. military support for Taiwan are significant, as it serves to deter potential Chinese aggression amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. This cooperation is not only aimed at preparing Taiwan for potential military conflicts but also acts as a counterbalance to China's increasing military assertiveness in the region. The U.S. Navy's presence in the Pacific further reinforces this strategy, contributing to regional stability and deterring expansionist activities by Beijing

Legislatively, the U.S. has sought to strengthen its support for Taiwan through various measures, including the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act, which promotes ongoing military training and a sustained U.S. military presence. These legislative efforts reflect a broader commitment to ensuring Taiwan's defense readiness in light of escalating security concerns regarding China's military capabilities

Background of US Military Support for Taiwan

The United States has maintained a complex military relationship with Taiwan since the late 20th century, aimed at bolstering the island's defenses against potential aggression from China. Following the establishment of the "One China" policy in 1979, which acknowledged Beijing's claim over Taiwan, the U.S. withdrew its formally recognized troops from the island. However, U.S. military support has continued in various forms, including training programs and arms sales, to help Taiwan maintain a self-sufficient defense posture against perceived threats from the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Military Presence and Training Programs

Despite the official withdrawal of U.S. forces, small contingents of American troops have remained in Taiwan since at least September 2008, coinciding with the end of the George W. Bush administration. These troops are involved in training Taiwanese military personnel in various combat and operational skills, including air defense and maritime operations. The Pentagon's commitment to assisting Taiwan is reinforced through the Taiwan Relations Act, which outlines U.S. support for Taiwan's defensive capabilitiesRecent reports indicate a surge in U.S. military presence in Taiwan, including the training of Taiwanese boat patrols by U.S. Marines, illustrating a more proactive approach to military cooperation. Additionally, there have been indications of U.S. special forces conducting training missions in Taiwan, focusing on advanced warfare tactics such as urban combat and dynamic targeting

Strategic Implications

The U.S. military's involvement in Taiwan serves multiple strategic objectives. Primarily, it aims to enhance Taiwan's readiness to defend itself against a potential invasion by China, particularly amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. This military cooperation is seen as a deterrent against aggressive Chinese military manoeuvres, which have intensified in recent years

. The presence of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific also plays a crucial role in maintaining regional stability and preventing Chinese expansionism, serving as a counterbalance to Beijing's military activities near Taiwan

Legislative Support

Legislatively, the U.S. government has sought to formalize its support for Taiwan through various acts, including the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act. This legislation emphasizes realistic training and an enduring rotational U.S. military presence in Taiwan to ensure its defense readiness. By prioritizing Taiwan’s military preparedness, the U.S. aims to reinforce its commitment to the island amid growing security concerns regarding Chinese military capabilities and assertiveness in the region.

## Pro Arguments

1. **Reduced Risk of Conflict**: Decreasing military support could lower tensions with China and reduce the risk of a potentially catastrophic war. As Michael O'Hanlon notes, "Taiwan's strategic significance to the United States is not even remotely enough to risk a war with China"[4].

2. **Focus on Domestic Priorities**: Reducing military support would allow the U.S. to redirect resources towards pressing domestic issues such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

3. **Improved U.S.-China Relations**: A reduction in military support could lead to better diplomatic and economic relations with China, potentially benefiting both nations.