The Taiwanese president's proposal to hike defense spending faces gridlock at home

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te visits a military base in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on May 16, 2025. Lai has pushed for a major boost to defense spending, but opposition parties have slowed his plans.

Opposition parties are slamming the brakes on billions in defense funding as the China escalates military pressure.

(Image credit: Daniel Ceng)