Nikki Haley Backs Trump in Taiwan Visit, Urges Support for U.S. Allies

During her recent visit to Taiwan, Nikki Haley, former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, expressed support for Republican nominee Donald Trump while emphasizing the importance of backing U.S. allies. Haley, who previously competed against Trump for the party's presidential nomination, addressed reporters in Taipei on August 24, 2024, highlighting the significance of supporting allies such as Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.

Haley stated, "I don't think the isolationist approach is healthy. I think America can never sit in a bubble and think that we won't be affected." This statement underscores her stance against isolationism, a concept in U.S. foreign policy that advocates for non-involvement in international affairs.

The former ambassador's visit to Taiwan comes at a time of heightened tensions between the island and China. Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), has been self-governed since 1949 and has a population of 23.57 million as of 2024. However, the People's Republic of China (PRC) claims Taiwan as its territory under its "One-China Policy."

While the United States does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it remains the island's strongest supporter and primary arms provider under the Taiwan Relations Act. Haley called for increased international backing for Taiwan and advocated for its full membership in the United Nations, from which it lost its seat to the PRC in 1971.

Addressing concerns about Trump's potential presidency, Haley praised the former administration's foreign policy, stating, "We did show American strength in the world." She highlighted their efforts in pushing back against China and imposing sanctions on Russia and North Korea.

Haley also criticized the current administration, particularly Vice President Kamala Harris, for their handling of international crises. She referenced the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and the outbreak of the Hamas-Israel war in October 2023.

"She was in the situation room right next to Joe Biden. She was there making the exact same decisions. Those decisions have made the world less safe."

Despite past disagreements with Trump, Haley expressed her intention to vote for him, while acknowledging that he still needs to win over some of her supporters. She emphasized the importance of Republican unity in addressing global threats, particularly those posed by China.

In conclusion, Haley's visit to Taiwan and her statements reflect the complex dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, the ongoing tensions in the Taiwan Strait, and the evolving political landscape within the Republican Party as it prepares for the upcoming presidential election.