Trump: Hopes Taiwan Strait Status Quo Remains, Urges De-escalation
U.S. President Donald Trump stated in a Fox News interview that he does not wish to see Taiwan move towards independence, preferring the status quo. He also urged both China and Taiwan to de-escalate the situation, reiterating that U.S. policy towards Taiwan has not changed and that the current situation has persisted for many years.
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- 📰 Published: May 16, 2026 at 12:31
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- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 16, 2026 at 14:47 (1h 16m after Collected)
U.S. President Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News aired today that he does not wish to see Taiwan move towards independence, but rather to maintain the status quo, and that both China and Taiwan should work to de-escalate the situation. Trump also said that U.S. policy towards Taiwan has not changed.
When asked by Fox News anchor Bret Baier whether the people of Taiwan should feel safer or less safe after his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week, Trump replied "neutral," adding, "this situation has been going on for many years."
Trump also said: "Nothing has changed. I will say, I don't want to see anyone go independent. And, you know, we have to fly 9,500 miles to fight a war, I don't want that. I want them to calm down. I want China to calm down."
When asked by Fox News anchor Bret Baier whether the people of Taiwan should feel safer or less safe after his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week, Trump replied "neutral," adding, "this situation has been going on for many years."
Trump also said: "Nothing has changed. I will say, I don't want to see anyone go independent. And, you know, we have to fly 9,500 miles to fight a war, I don't want that. I want them to calm down. I want China to calm down."
FAQ
What is President Trump's stance on Taiwan's independence?
President Trump stated that he does not want to see Taiwan move towards independence and prefers the status quo.
What is President Trump's view on the situation in the Taiwan Strait?
He believes that both China and Taiwan should work to de-escalate the situation and that the current situation has persisted for many years.
Has U.S. policy towards Taiwan changed under President Trump?
President Trump reiterated that U.S. policy towards Taiwan has not changed.
What is President Trump's primary concern regarding potential conflict in the region?
He expressed a desire to avoid a war, mentioning the significant distance involved in sending U.S. forces.