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PBS News Hour

Is defending Taiwan vital to U.S.? Experts offer views

Season 2025 Episode 140 | 9m 35s

Taiwan has long been a tense flashpoint between Washington and Beijing. By law, the U.S. is required to help Taiwan defend itself. But there is now a debate about whether Taiwan is spending enough on defense, whether Ukraine is a distraction or a test case, and whether defending Taiwan is a vital U.S. interest. Nick Schifrin discussed more with Randall Schriver and Michael Swaine.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
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