TAIPEI (TVBS News) — U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker praised President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) plan Wednesday (Nov. 26) to increase Taiwan's defense budget to NT$1.25 trillion (around US$40 billion) for asymmetric warfare capabilities. Wicker called the proposal a demonstration of Taiwan's determination to deter regional aggression.
The U.S. senator urged Taiwan's legislators, Taiwan's parliament, to swiftly enact the special budget legislation and emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation. Wicker noted the increased defense spending demonstrates Taiwan's capability to deter regional aggression. He stressed lawmakers must address Taiwan's pressing defense needs through cross-party collaboration.
Wicker encouraged lawmakers to collaborate across party lines with Lai's administration to expedite the legislative process for the special budget. He emphasized that setting aside political differences remains essential for addressing Taiwan's pressing defense needs. The senator repeated his call for swift enactment of the special budget legislation through bipartisan cooperation.
Senator Rick Scott (史考特), chair of the Senate Armed Services Seapower Subcommittee and ally of President Donald Trump, also lauded Taiwan's defense budget announcement on X, , the social media platform. Scott acknowledged Taiwan's dedication to self-defense and highlighted the move as clear commitment to fulfilling responsibilities. He emphasized the budget deepens Taiwan's partnership with the U.S. in the region. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.3)