Senator Risch to Introduce Bill Targeting Economic Measures to Deter Chinese Aggression Against Taiwan
WASHINGTON D.C. – US Senator Jim Risch, Chairman of the senate Foreign Relations committee, plans to introduce legislation aimed at deterring potential Chinese aggression towards Taiwan by pre-identifying targets for swift economic sanctions adn other measures. The bill, titled the “Deter PRC Aggression Against Taiwan act,” seeks to prepare the US to respond forcefully should China use military force against the island nation.
The proposed legislation would establish a joint task force led by the US Department of State and the US department of Treasury. This task force would be responsible for identifying key Chinese military and non-military targets for sanctions, export controls, and other economic penalties that could be rapidly deployed in the event of aggression against Taiwan.Risch stated the bill draws lessons from the sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, ensuring the US is “prepared to hit China where it hurts” if it follows through on threats against Taiwan.
The move comes as the US and China anticipate a meeting this month between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平), where a major trade deal is expected to be discussed. Concerns have been raised that President Trump might prioritize securing a trade agreement with Beijing over a firm commitment to Taiwan’s defense.
the US is a key ally of Taiwan, and the proposed bill reflects growing Congressional support for a strong stance against any Chinese actions towards the island. While the State Department maintains its position opposing unilateral changes to the status quo, analysts note China seeks a clearer statement from the Trump administration opposing taiwanese independence – a departure from the policy of the previous administration of former President Joe Biden. An aide to Senator Risch indicated the bill would be introduced tomorrow.
