Following a recent clash between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the disputed South China Sea, the United States publicly reiterated its strong support for its ally, the Philippines.
The confrontation on Sunday in the Spratly Islands involved China allegedly using water cannons and ramming a Filipino vessel, which the U.S. State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, strongly condemned. Washington stated that these “dangerous actions” by China “undermine regional stability.”
Crucially, the U.S. reaffirmed the applicability of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. Pigott clarified that Article IV of the treaty covers armed attacks on the Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft—including its Coast Guard—anywhere in the South China Sea.
The incident is the latest escalation in a strategic trade route where China claims the majority of territory. China’s Foreign Ministry urged Manila to cease “violations and provocations” and avoid challenging Beijing’s efforts to “safeguard its territorial sovereignty.” The U.S., meanwhile, criticized China’s “sweeping territorial and maritime claims” and its coercive actions, stating they contradict prior commitments to peaceful dispute resolution.
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