Trump’s Order to Exit 66 International Organizations: Squeezing Taiwan’s Global Profile

The US is stepping back, and Taiwan's catching the cold. President Donald Trump’s decision to exit dozens of global bodies is already rattling Taipei. On January 7, 2026, Trump ordered a withdrawal from 66 international organizations, a move that's dealing a heavy blow to the island's efforts to raise its global profile.

Trump US Withdrawal International Organizations Taiwan Impact and Strategic Shifts

While William Lai Ching-te’s administration has tried to play down the fallout, observers aren't so optimistic. They've warned that Washington’s retreat will likely allow Beijing to further squeeze Taiwan’s already narrow international space. Without US backing in these forums, Taiwan loses its most vocal advocate for inclusion.

A Growing Vacuum on the World Stage

The withdrawal isn't just about saving money; it's a fundamental shift in US foreign policy. According to reports from the South China Morning Post, the United States has historically used its influence in these 66 organizations to push for Taiwan's participation. As the US exits, that pressure vanishes, leaving a vacuum that China is more than ready to fill.

Taipei's government insists that bilateral ties remain strong. However, experts argue that multilateralism was Taiwan's best chance at achieving 'meaningful participation' in global governance. Now, that path looks increasingly blocked.