In recent years, the European Union and Taiwan have quietly, but meaningfully, deepened their ties, especially in trade and technology.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, as European policymakers looked for ways to reduce overreliance on China. Taiwan, with its cutting-edge semiconductor industry and democratic governance, stood out as a natural partner.

But economics wasn’t the only driver. Growing unease over China’s geopolitical assertiveness, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, has led European leaders to reassess their strategic posture. Security concerns, coupled with the push for more resilient supply chains, brought Taiwan into sharper focus in EU foreign policy circles.

This progress, however, could be undone — not by Beijing, but by Washington.

President Trump’s reemergence on the international stage has already caused unease among America’s allies. His first term was marked by unpredictable trade policies and open skepticism toward longstanding alliances. By imposing tariffs on both rivals and partners and frequently shifting course, the Trump administration often left Europe scrambling to adapt.

The Biden administration, in contrast, worked to rebuild trust and promote policy alignment, particularly on China and Taiwan, after years of friction. That........

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