Pompeo Urges Unwavering US Commitment to Taiwan's Sovereignty Ahead of Trump-Xi Talks

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has publicly called for the United States to affirm its "unequivocal commitment to Taiwan’s sovereignty and independence from Beijing" during an upcoming meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Trump. Pompeo's statement, made via social media, anticipates Xi Jinping will press President Trump for clarity on America’s stance toward Taiwan. The high-stakes discussions are expected to address the increasingly tense cross-strait relations.

"Xi Jinping is expected to press President Trump for clarity about America’s stance toward Taiwan at their meeting this week. America should oblige - and affirm our unequivocal commitment to Taiwan’s sovereignty and independence from Beijing," Mike Pompeo stated in his tweet.

The anticipated meeting between the two leaders comes amid escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, a region Beijing views as a breakaway province to be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary. The United States officially adheres to a "One China" policy, acknowledging Beijing's position without endorsing its claim over Taiwan, while also maintaining unofficial relations and providing defensive capabilities to the island under the Taiwan Relations Act. This policy has historically been characterized by "strategic ambiguity."

Recent reports from sources like Foreign Affairs suggest that the risk of conflict over Taiwan has reached alarming heights, with China increasing military drills and incursions. Some analysts indicate that Beijing is seeking a change in US policy regarding Taiwan's independence and sovereignty. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) also warned against any concessions on Taiwan, asserting that "Taiwan is off the table in any negotiation with the CCP."

The debate intensifies around whether the US should shift from strategic ambiguity to strategic clarity, explicitly stating it would defend Taiwan in the event of an attack. While President Biden occasionally made such statements, they were often walked back by his administration, reaffirming the existing policy. The outcome of the discussions between President Trump and Xi Jinping could significantly influence the future trajectory of US-China relations and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.