Kenneth Weinstein, the Japan chair at the Hudson Institute, recently called on Taiwan to significantly boost its defense spending. In an interview with Jiji Press on Sunday, Weinstein emphasized the importance of Taiwan strengthening its military capabilities due to rising regional threats.
Weinstein argued that Taiwan should raise its defense spending from 2% to 5% of its GDP. He explained that while a Chinese invasion in the near future remains unlikely, the constant threat of aggression persists. He pointed out that Chinese leader Xi Jinping is cautious about provoking US President Donald Trump, especially as China’s economy struggles to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Weinstein, the US tariffs make China’s economic rebound even more challenging. He warned that any military action by China would increase Xi’s risks.
While a Chinese invasion is unlikely in the short term, Weinstein made it clear that Taiwan must remain prepared. He stressed that the US would respond decisively if China attempted to seize Taiwan by force. “Trump will do everything in his power to prevent Xi from using force,” Weinstein said.
Weinstein also highlighted the significant responsibility Japan faces in defending its interests in the region. He noted that for Japan, Taiwan and regional stability matter more directly than they do for the US. This shift in focus marks an important step for Japan, which must recognize that it bears the primary responsibility for its own defense.
This conversation is particularly timely following a joint US-Japan statement issued in February. In the statement, Japan reaffirmed its commitment to “fundamentally reinforce its own defense capabilities,” underscoring the growing concern over regional security. As tensions persist, Taiwan’s defense spending and readiness will play a key role in maintaining stability in East Asia.
