China Condemns US Naval Operation Near Disputed Spratly Islands
A spokesperson for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command said the US littoral combat ship USS Charleston entered waters near Xianbin Jiao, also known as Sabina Shoal, within China’s Nansha Qundao, or Spratly Islands, early Tuesday without Beijing’s permission.
Chinese naval units were deployed to follow and monitor the American vessel in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, the spokesperson said.
“China holds indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao and its adjacent waters,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson further argued that the US operation “infringes upon China’s sovereign rights and interests, jeopardizes maritime security, and is detrimental to regional peace and stability,” according to a statement released by Chinese authorities.
Beijing called on Washington to stop similar naval activities immediately, warning that its armed forces remain on heightened alert to protect the country's sovereignty and security.
The Southern Theater Command will continue defending China's territorial claims while working to preserve peace and stability in the region, the spokesperson added.
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