Here’s why Taiwan has been important to the United States

China considers it a part of the Chinese nation. The United States considers it a roadblock to further Chinese influence in Asia. No wonder, then, that Taiwan has long been a point of contention between the superpowers. Although the US doesn't officially recognise Taiwan as an independent country, it has played a major role in Taiwan's security for decades. In the past, the US has sold weapons to Taiwan, and former President Joe Biden said the US would come to the defense of the island if China invades. But now, at a time when China is working to expand its presence, it seems the Trump administration might upend years of diplomacy in the area.

- Stephanie Yang

Here’s a look at how US support for Taiwan has ebbed and flowed throughout the decades and what's at stake in the future.

Why does the US care about Taiwan? Though it's geographically much closer to China—about 80 miles off its coast — Taiwan has geopolitical, technological and other strategic value to the US. As a self-governing democracy, Taiwan is seen as a bulwark against China's growing clout in Asia. It is also one in a chain of islands in the Pacific that the US has said are essential to combating Chinese military expansion. A takeover of Taiwan would give China a strong foothold in the region, to the detriment of US allies like Japan, Australia and the Philippines. In addition, Taiwan is home to the world’s most advanced semiconductor manufacturing; an attack on the island could trigger a complete disruption to the global tech supply chain.