In a recent 60 Minutes interview, Biden was asked point-blank by CBS News' Scott Pelley if US forces would defend Taiwan from an attack by the mainland.

"Yes, if in fact there was an unprecedented attack," Biden said.

"After our interview a White House official told us US policy has not changed," Pelly narrates after the comment. "Officially, the U.S. will not say whether American forces would defend Taiwan. But the commander-in-chief had a view of his own."

"So unlike Ukraine, to be clear, sir, US Forces, US men and women would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion?" Pelley asked.

"Yes," Biden replied.