U.S. Signaling, Reliability, and Cross-Strait Dynamics during the Second Trump Administration

This paper revisits the strategic ambiguity policy of the United States toward Taiwan, particularly under the Trump administration, examining its implications for regional stability and Taiwan’s hedging strategies. It analyzes how the Trump administration’s approach, characterized by both increased support for Taiwan and transactional diplomacy, has influenced perceptions of U.S. reliability and complicated cross-strait relations. The research investigates the shift in Taiwanese public opinion, revealing a growing consideration to the rise of hedging as a strategic response. The findings suggest that the Trump administration’s policies have contributed to a more uncertain environment, prompting Taiwan to adopt a hedging strategy that incorporates both anti-China and pro-U.S. elements. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics for policymakers seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of U.S.-Taiwan-PRC relations under the Trump administration 2.0.