Taiwan plans extra $40bn in defence spending to counter China’s ‘intensifying’ threats

The GuardianWednesday, November 26, 2025 at 6:30:44 AM
Taiwan plans extra $40bn in defence spending to counter China’s ‘intensifying’ threats
  • Taiwan's government has announced a significant increase in defense spending, allocating an additional $40 billion to counter escalating threats from China, as stated by President Lai Ching-te, who emphasized the importance of national security amid rising tensions.
  • This decision underscores Taiwan's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities in response to perceived threats from Beijing, which has been intensifying its military posturing and rhetoric towards the island.
  • The broader context reveals a pattern of increasing military and diplomatic tensions in the region, with Taiwan's preparations for potential conflict reflecting a growing urgency to secure its sovereignty against China's assertive claims, while also receiving support from the United States.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Iran closes airspace to all flights as foreign minister denies it plans to execute protesters – live
NegativeWorld Affairs
Iran has closed its airspace to all flights as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied plans to execute protesters, stating that hangings are 'out of the question.' This comes amid a violent crackdown on anti-government demonstrations, which has reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths and a significant international response.
Trump is making China – not America – great again, global survey suggests
NegativeWorld Affairs
A global survey conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations indicates that Donald Trump's America-first policy is perceived as enhancing China's global standing rather than strengthening the United States. The survey reveals that traditional adversaries of the U.S. feel less threatened, while allies, particularly in Europe, express growing distance from the U.S. leadership.
US and UK military withdraw some personnel from Middle East amid Iranian threats
NegativeWorld Affairs
The United States and the United Kingdom have begun withdrawing some military personnel from a base in Qatar due to escalating tensions with Iran, following threats from Tehran to target U.S. bases if military action is taken. This withdrawal comes amid a backdrop of significant unrest in Iran, where protests against the government have intensified, leading to a violent crackdown and rising death tolls among demonstrators.
US and UK pulling some personnel from Qatar military base
NeutralWorld Affairs
The United States and the United Kingdom are withdrawing some personnel from a military base in Qatar as a precautionary measure amid rising tensions with Iran. This decision coincides with President Donald Trump's consideration of potential military action against Iran following a violent crackdown on protests in the country.
Will China and Canada ease their tariffs? What’s at stake in Carney visit
NeutralWorld Affairs
Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to China has sparked discussions regarding the potential easing of tariffs between Canada and China, a move that some experts view as a significant test of diplomatic relations.
US suspends immigrant visa processing for 75 countries
NegativeWorld Affairs
The US government announced a blanket suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, including Russia, Iran, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, Nigeria, and Somalia. This suspension will take effect on January 21, with no specified end date.
US launches phase two of Gaza peace plan with new technocratic government
PositiveWorld Affairs
The United States has initiated the second phase of its Gaza peace plan, which includes the formation of a technocratic Palestinian government and aims at the reconstruction and demilitarization of Gaza, as stated by US envoy Steve Witkoff.
Why two Canadian provinces are in a spat over Crown Royal whisky
NeutralWorld Affairs
A dispute has arisen between two Canadian provinces regarding Crown Royal whisky, a product owned by a UK company and produced in Canada, as it faces challenges from US tariffs. This situation is testing the effectiveness of a united

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about