U.S. welcomes Taiwan's military service extension

TOKYO -- The U.S. has expressed support for Taiwan's decision to extend compulsory military service for men 18 and older, a move expected to shore up bipartisan backing in Washington for long-term assistance to the island.

"We welcome Taiwan's recent announcement on conscription reform, which underscores Taiwan's commitment to self-defense and strengthens deterrence," a White House spokesperson said Tuesday.