Since 2016, Taiwan has seen its international space shrink in the face of Chinese pressure. In recent weeks, however, there are signs that the United States is pushing back, spurred in part by growing concern over China's rising influence in its own backyard.

The response has come from both Congress and the executive branch. Four senators, two Democrat and two Republican, last week sponsored a Bill, the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (Taipei) Act, seeking to galvanise the US government to dissuade Taiwan's remaining allies from switching sides.