KEY POINTS
  • When asked at a joint news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida whether the U.S. would be prepared to defend Taiwan if attacked, Biden replied, "Yes."
  • Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked Biden for reaffirming U.S. support if Beijing invaded the island.
  • However, China's Foreign Ministry said the U.S. should not defend Taiwan independence, Reuters reported.

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday said he would be willing to use force to defend Taiwan, prompting thanks from the democratic, self-ruled island — but sharp criticism from China.

When asked at a joint news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida whether the U.S. would be prepared to defend Taiwan if attacked, Biden replied, "Yes."