US Republicans want billions for Taiwan military aid to counter China

US Republican lawmakers introduced legislation on Thursday seeking to provide $2 billion per year and other assistance to bolster’s Taiwan’s defenses as it faces rising pressure from China. The legislation, reviewed by Reuters, would authorize $2 billion a year in Foreign Military Financing – US grants and loans that enable countries to purchase weapons and defense equipment produced in the United States – through 2032 for the self-ruled island. While the bill is sponsored only by Republicans, the minority party in the Senate, it adds to pressure from Congress on Democratic President Joe Biden for bolder action to strengthen ties…