According to Axios on May 17, some of Trump's close aides view the most significant outcome of the U.S.-China summit as an increased risk of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. They also expressed concerns that such an action could disrupt the semiconductor supply chain critical for the artificial intelligence (AI) industry.
During his visit to Beijing, Trump reportedly felt satisfied with the ceremonial treatment he received. However, his associates noted the messages conveyed by China during the trip. One aide told Axios that Xi Jinping's attitude suggested, "China is no longer an emerging power but an equal to the United States, and it is trying to establish a new position that Taiwan belongs to China."
The aide assessed that the visit signaled a significantly increased likelihood of the Taiwan issue coming to the forefront within the next five years. He added, "The U.S. economy is not prepared for this, and the semiconductor supply chain is far from self-sufficient."
The Taiwan issue is also directly linked to the AI competition. Taiwan is a key hub for advanced semiconductor production. If China were to pressure Taiwan or take military action, U.S. companies could face disruptions in the supply of chips necessary for AI operations. The aide emphasized, "There is no more urgent issue for CEOs and the economy as a whole than the semiconductor supply chain."
Taiwan has also expressed its vigilance. President Tsai Ing-wen recently stated, "Taiwan will not be sacrificed or used as a bargaining chip," asserting that the future of Taiwan should be determined by its people. He also emphasized that U.S. arms sales to Taiwan are a commitment under the Taiwan Relations Act.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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