Trump to Decide on Taiwan Arms Sale Amid Upcoming China Trip

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has said the Taiwan issue remains the most sensitive in U.S.–China relations.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

U.S. President Donald Trump said he discussed U.S. arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and would soon make a decision on whether to meet Beijing's demand to halt them. Trump said he expects to visit China in April for talks with the Chinese leader.

Why it matters

The Taiwan issue remains a major point of contention between the U.S. and China, with Beijing claiming sovereignty over the self-governed island. The U.S. is required by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, but Trump's decision on arms sales could impact U.S.-China relations.

The details

Trump said he spoke with Xi about the matter and they maintain a good relationship despite some differences. Xi told Trump the Taiwan issue remains the most sensitive in U.S.–China relations and urged him 'to handle the issue of arms sales to Taiwan with prudence.' The U.S. in December approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, the largest weapons package ever proposed for the island.

  • On Feb. 4, Trump and Xi spoke by phone.
  • Trump expects to visit China in April for talks with the Chinese leader.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States.

Xi Jinping

The leader of China.

Taiwan

A self-governed island that China claims sovereignty over.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The relationship with China, and my personal relationship with President Xi, is an extremely good one, and we both realize how important it is to keep it that way.”

— Donald Trump (Truth Social)

“Mutual trust is key to improving the bilateral relations with the United States and called for a 'win-win cooperation' with the Trump administration.”

— Xi Jinping (Chinese Foreign Ministry)

What’s next

Trump is expected to make a decision soon on whether to halt U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, which could impact U.S.-China relations.

The takeaway

The Taiwan issue remains a delicate and sensitive topic in U.S.-China relations, with both sides holding firm positions. Trump's upcoming decision on arms sales to Taiwan could have significant implications for the bilateral relationship between the two countries.