US President Donald Trump has signaled that he is open to speaking directly with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, a move that would mark a major break from long-standing American diplomatic practice toward Taiwan and China. Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews before boarding Air Force One, Trump responded affirmatively when asked whether he would contact Lai ahead of deciding on a major arms package for Taiwan that had already been approved by Congress.

Taiwan expresses readiness for President Lai to speak with Trump, signaling potential changes in U.S. policy amid China tensions.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Wednesday that if he got the opportunity to speak to US President Donald Trump he would say China was undermining peace and causing tensions…