U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has exempted over $1 billion in foreign security assistance for Taiwan and the Philippines from the ongoing aid freeze. This decision underscores the United States’ commitment to bolstering security in the Asia-Pacific region amid rising tensions with China.
The exemptions include $870 million for Taiwan and $336 million for the Philippines. These funds are part of a broader tranche of $5.3 billion in previously frozen foreign aid that has been released, primarily allocated for security and counternarcotics programs. The aid freeze, ordered by President Donald Trump shortly after taking office, halted funding for various programs, including those aimed at fighting starvation and deadly diseases.
Rubio’s decision to exempt security programs for Taiwan and the Philippines sends a strong message of deterrence to China. A senior State Department official emphasized that these exemptions align with the U.S. administration’s “America First” priorities and reflect the White House’s desire to cut aid for programs not considered vital to U.S. national security.
The vast majority of the released funds, over $4.1 billion, are for programs administered by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, which oversees arms sales and military assistance to other countries and groups. Other exemptions include funds for databases to track migrants, identify possible terrorists, and share biometric information.
While the exemptions for Taiwan and the Philippines are significant, the aid freeze has left many humanitarian programs struggling for funding. Few humanitarian aid waivers have been approved, and the list of exemptions provides a comprehensive accounting of the funds that have been released.
In related news, the White House has highlighted Taiwan’s pledge to boost investment in the United States as one of President Trump’s victories. This pledge includes increased procurement and investment in response to global tariff threats and pressure on Taiwan’s semiconductor industry.
Rubio’s decision to exempt security programs for Taiwan and the Philippines from the aid freeze demonstrates the U.S. administration’s strategic focus on strengthening alliances and countering China’s influence in the region. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, these exemptions underscore the importance of maintaining robust security partnerships in the Asia-Pacific.
