U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Sunday attempted to clarify President Donald Trump’s recent threat to withhold arms sales to Taiwan, downplaying suggestions of a rift in U.S. support for the island.

The following is the transcript of the interview with Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 17, 2026.

Taiwan’s president says arms purchases from the United States are crucial for regional stability, after President Donald Trump questioned continued U.S. support for Taiwan following his visit to China.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te vows Taiwan will never be sacrificed or traded, rebuking China and thanking Trump for security cooperation.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has pressed the US to keep selling weapons to Taiwan, saying the island will never be “traded away”.

Taiwan's representative to the U.S. Alexander Yui said on Sunday that "we want peace and stability" as Taiwan became among the most closely-watched issues in last week's summit.

After President Trump hinted that weapons sales to Taiwan could figure in negotiations with China, officials emphasized their island’s strategic importance.

US President Donald Trump's warning against "Taiwan independence" has sent shockwaves through Taiwan's media and political circles. While pro-Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) outlets have largely attempted to downplay the remarks,