A key national defense budget has become the center of a political battle in Taiwan. US$5 billion in national security funds are stalled, as the ruling DPP urges the opposition KMT and TPP to approve the package. The special budget, introduced by the Cabinet in April, aims to fund drones, coast guard patrol ships and cybersecurity upgrades in response to growing pressure from China. The opposition argues the plan lacks transparency and should be handled through the regular budget process, proposing instead to give cash stimulus payments to citizens.
