Is Trump distancing the US from Taiwan?

Has former President Trump begun to distance the United States from Taiwan? Recently, a significant change in U.S. foreign policy has emerged, with potential implications for international stability. For the first time in nearly twenty years, Washington publicly criticized Taiwan, signaling a possible shift in its stance. The catalyst was Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te canceling his planned visits to Latin America, which included stops in New York and Dallas. Reports indicate that the Trump administration advised Lai to refrain from traveling to the U.S. This move suggests a potential realignment in America's approach to Taiwan. Lai's trip cancellation follows the suspension of another visit—by Taiwan’s defense minister, Wellington Koo—in June, which was reportedly called off after a phone call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Some sources suggest this change reflects Trump's aim to prevent provoking China. However, the reasons may be more complex. President Lai has recently made provocative speeches on Taiwan’s history and sovereignty, diverging from the more cautious policies of his predecessor. These statements have heightened tensions with Beijing, which res...