US House defense bill proposes $1 billion in aid for Taiwan; DPP expresses gratitude

The US House Armed Services Committee recently released the text of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes up to $1 billion (approximately NT$31 billion) in funding for the 'Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.' The committee is scheduled to review the bill on June 4. Chuang Jui-hsiung, secretary-general of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislative caucus, stated today that the party is very grateful for the US support and that Taiwan will make good use of the funds. Chuang emphasized that ensuring national security requires enhancing domestic defense capabilities. He noted that Taiwan cannot rely solely on purchasing advanced weapons from the US but must also focus on domestic production and defense cooperation. 'When Taiwan demonstrates a strong will to defend itself, the international community will see Taiwan as a reliable partner,' he said. Regarding KMT member Cheng Li-wun's visit to the US, Chuang expressed hope for her success but urged her to speak from Taiwan's perspective, contrasting her behavior toward Chinese President Xi Jinping with her stance in the US.