Biden: The United States will help Taiwan in the event of an attack

President Joe Biden said on the TV show “60 Minutes” that the United States would send military aid if China attacked Taiwan. However, the White House maintains that the US position remains – that is, it helps the country with military means but does not promise to send any troops.

This isn’t the first time Biden has made promises of military aid that the White House has since downplayed. The last time was in May during a visit to Japan.

‘Strategic ambiguity’

Washington severed formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1979 and instead recognized Beijing as the sole ruler of China. Then mainland China became an important trading partner. But at the same time, the United States has maintained a critical, if fragile, role in supporting Taiwan.

By law, the United States must sell military supplies to Taiwan to ensure the country’s defense against Beijing’s larger armed forces. However, nothing was mentioned about the possibility of sending soldiers to the island. The US position is often called “strategic ambiguity”.

Asked if the latest statement from Biden indicated a change in strategic ambiguity, a White House spokesperson said:

– The president has said this before, including in Tokyo earlier this year. He also made it clear at the time that our policy toward Taiwan has not changed.

Re-election uncertain

During the “60 Minutes” interview, Biden was also asked if he intended to run for the next presidential election in 2024. In the past, the message was that he plans to do so.

Biden, who will turn 80 in November, said on the TV show “60 Minutes” that he intends to run.

– But it’s just an intention. It is not a firm decision to run again. remains to be seen.

Biden says it’s too early.