US forces would defend Taiwan against Chinese invasion, says Joe Biden

TIL Desk/World/Washington/ President Joe Biden says US forces would defend Taiwan if China tries to invade the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing as part of its territory, adding to displays of official American support for the island democracy.

Asked during an interview 60 Minutes program whether US forces, US men and women, would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion, Biden said, Yes.

According to Reports, White House said after the interview that US policy hasn’t changed. That policy says Washington wants to see Taiwan’s status resolved peacefully but doesn’t say whether US forces might be sent in response to a Chinese attack.

Biden’s comments come amid rising tension over Taiwan following efforts by Chinese President Xi Jinping’s government to intimidate the island by firing missiles into the sea and flying fighter jets nearby and visits to Taipei by political figures including US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.