TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) pledged Taiwan's commitment to preventing electronic components from reaching Russia through third countries on Friday (Jan. 23), responding to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's criticism that Taiwan provides electronic components to Russia to bolster its armed forces. Lai made the remarks at Taipei World Trade Center Exhibition Hall 1 (台北世貿一館) after Zelenskyy's comments at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Zelenskyy criticized European allies, stating the EU's internal divisions fail to influence global issues. He highlighted that Russia's ability to continue launching ballistic and cruise missile attacks on Ukraine does not stem solely from support from China. Zelenskyy emphasized that without key components originating from Europe, the United States, and Taiwan, Russia could not produce these missile weapons.
Lai expressed solidarity with Ukraine, stating Taiwan stands with its people and has joined Europe and the U.S. in sanctioning Russia while participating in humanitarian aid efforts. He noted that young Taiwanese have fought in Ukraine, with some sacrificing their lives, demonstrating unity with the Ukrainian people. Lai emphasized Taiwan's willingness to join European and American allies in "strengthening controls on goods shipped through third countries."
On the social media platform X, Lai posted earlier Friday that Taiwan has long worked closely with international partners and remains firmly supportive of Ukraine. He noted Taiwan's efforts to advance humanitarian assistance and coordinate sanctions against Russia. Lai added that Taiwan is willing to exchange more information with Zelenskyy to crack down on shipments "hiding their final destination to prevent them from reaching Russia and to protect Ukraine." ◼