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Taiwan Opposition Blocks NT$1.25 Trillion Defense Budget From Reaching Floor

Opposition leaders want a presidential briefing before the package advances.

Overview

  • The Cabinet-approved special budget totals NT$1.25 trillion to fund major weapons procurement and U.S. joint-development programs from 2026 to 2033.
  • KMT lawmakers moved in the Procedure Committee to postpone consideration, with TPP support, preventing placement on the Legislative Yuan plenary agenda.
  • Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee called the committee outcome "extremely regrettable" and said lawmakers cannot compel the president to take questions under the separation of powers.
  • KMT caucus whip Fu Kun-chi said the party supports protecting Taiwan and wants President Lai to explain the necessity of the expenditure to the Legislature.
  • Other Cabinet and DPP proposals were also blocked during the session, signaling a broader standoff that could delay planned procurements beginning in 2026.