Presidential Office Denies Reports of Suspended US Arms Sales; DPP Warns Against 'Anti-US' Rhetoric

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 22. Regarding foreign media reports that Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao stated the US is pausing a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui stated that there is currently no information regarding any adjustments to this sale. The DPP legislative caucus emphasized that while the matter warrants attention, it should not be used to fuel 'anti-US' rhetoric. Reports indicate that Hung Cao testified at a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on the 21st that the US is pausing the sale to address military needs related to Iran. Kuo urged the legislature to complete the review of the special budget for arms purchases as scheduled. DPP caucus whip Chuang Jui-hsiung noted that if the report is true, it highlights global attention on Taiwan, but Taiwan must focus on building its own defense industry, including asymmetric warfare capabilities and local production. He added that Taiwan remains a strategic priority for the US. Additionally, the caucus addressed Lin Chi-ling's decision to decline a board position at the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), expressing respect for her personal choice.