Taiwan Aims to Placate Trump With a 23% Military Spending Boost

Taiwan has announced plans to increase its military spending by 23% in 2020, aiming to address concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposed defense budget hike is part of Taiwan's efforts to bolster its self-defense capabilities in the face of growing pressure from China, which considers the island a breakaway province. Trump has previously criticized Taiwan for not spending enough on its military, urging the country to take more responsibility for its own security. The planned 23% increase in defense spending reflects Taiwan's attempt to address Trump's demands and maintain strong ties with the United States, its key international ally. The heightened military expenditure is expected to fund the acquisition of new weapons systems and the modernization of Taiwan's armed forces. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, which have escalated in recent years due to the island's pursuit of greater autonomy and international recognition.