The Presidential Office responded to allegations that the United States is withholding a US$14 billion arms sale deal saying that there is no new information about adjustments to on sales to Taiwan. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) responded on Friday, adding that Taiwan’s biggest issue isn’t U.S. assistance, but Taiwan’s defense budget.

The Hill reported Thursday that the U.S. is suspending the US$14 billion dollar sale to Taiwan to maintain a stock for the Iran war, according to senate testimony by acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao. Other rumors about the deal were spurred by President Trump’s own words saying the suspended deal makes a good “negotiating chip” with China, following his meeting with Xi last week.

On Friday Kuo responded saying that the Presidential Office is aware of the reports, but there is no official information about U.S. arms sales adjustments to Taiwan. She emphasized Taiwan’s biggest issue is internal, saying, “There has been no indication that the United States plans to make any adjustments to this arms sale. The biggest issue is that we hope the legislation and budget related to the arms sale in the Legislature can be completed smoothly and on-schedule without any unexpected complications. That is what matters most at this time.”

Asked about Trump’s intent to call President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) within the week to discuss the arms sale, Kuo said there are no new developments, but the office will continue to monitor the situation and update the public accordingly.