Taiwan meeting with senior Trump advisers in Washington has drawn attention to shifting power centers in the U.S. Earlier this month, Alexander Yui, Taiwan’s representative to the United States, met privately with members of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board. The discussion took place in Washington and marked one of the highest-level exchanges between U.S. and Taiwanese officials in recent years.
The advisory board, known as PIAB, has traditionally operated quietly. However, it has recently become more visible in the Trump administration. Several members hold strong ties to the president and maintain influence in shaping intelligence discussions.
Officials confirmed that Devin Nunes, chair of the board and chief executive of Trump Media, joined the Taiwan meeting. Robert O’Brien, former national security adviser, also attended. Other members present have not been disclosed.
White House officials described the encounter as an informal exchange arranged by mutual contacts, rather than an official PIAB session. Nonetheless, the Taiwan meeting underscored how the board is emerging as an important voice inside the administration.
Taiwanese officials have sought deeper engagement with Washington despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties. China continues to claim the island, making any U.S. contact with Taiwanese leaders a sensitive matter.
At the same time, the Trump administration has reshaped its national security structure. The National Security Council has experienced waves of firings, while leaders at the NSA and Defense Intelligence Agency were replaced. The PIAB, in contrast, has expanded its activity and convened regularly.
Observers note that PIAB discussions have included artificial intelligence and restructuring of intelligence agencies. Some diplomats now approach PIAB members directly for insights on U.S. policy.
Michael Desch, a professor at Notre Dame, described the current group as more professional than in Trump’s first term. He said the board now includes credible figures with substantial experience.
Taiwan’s defense minister previously planned a visit to Washington but canceled the trip. Still, Yui’s Washington engagement suggests Taipei remains eager for channels to U.S. leadership
Future developments remain uncertain. The PIAB may continue expanding influence, but many experts caution its volunteer members cannot replace full agencies. For Taiwan, however, such meetings demonstrate valuable openings to advance dialogue with a key partner.
