Trump’s Taiwan gamble threatens deterrence and stability in the Taiwan Strait

A Brookings analysis argues that Trump’s hints at negotiating with Beijing over Taiwan and using arms sales as leverage would undermine deterrence, embolden Beijing, and raise the risk of conflict in the Taiwan Strait. The path to peace, the piece contends, is a steady U.S. commitment to peace and stability, resisting unilateral moves by either side, preserving influence in both Taipei and Beijing, and encouraging direct cross-strait dialogue rather than concessions that undermine deterrence.