Following a recent visit to Taiwan, a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) has presented key takeaways that could shape the Trump administration's approach to the island nation. The eight-member group, comprised of U.S. national security and business leaders, concluded their strategic trip amidst a changing political landscape in both Washington D.C. and Taipei, and against a backdrop of escalating Chinese pressure in the region.

The delegation's meetings aimed to bolster U.S.-Taiwan relations across political and business spheres. While acknowledging a mix of anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the Trump administration's stance on Taiwan, the RRPFI identified several key areas for potential policy focus.

Echoing a core tenet of Trump's previous term, the delegation emphasized the importance of increased defense spending, urging bipartisan support for this objective. They also underscored the expectation that U.S. allies, including Taiwan, should bear the primary responsibility for their own defense.

The RRPFI noted that the situation in Ukraine and the Western response to Russia's invasion are significant concerns for Taiwanese leadership. They highlighted the Presidential Drawdown Authority and Foreign Military Sales as crucial mechanisms for bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities and maintaining regional stability.

RRPFI President and CEO David Trulio conveyed to Taiwanese officials that the U.S. response to China's actions in the South China Sea and its online influence campaigns is under scrutiny. He reiterated the need for a "peace through strength" approach, emphasizing a robust partnership with Taiwan and sustained U.S. deterrence.

Trulio also stressed the importance of Taiwan meeting the expectation of increased defense spending, highlighting the island's recent investments in its security. He noted Taiwan's significant increases in defense spending since 2016, alongside its consistent position as a major purchaser of U.S. arms.

The delegation cautioned that delays in arms deliveries weaken Taiwan's defense and project an image of the U.S. as an unreliable ally. They pointed to China's strong reactions to past U.S. arms sales to Taiwan as evidence of the issue's sensitivity.