In a high-seas drama on Friday, the U.S. destroyer USS Higgins and the UK frigate HMS Richmond sailed through the Taiwan Strait 🛥️, prompting a strong response from the PLA's Eastern Theater Command.
Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command, said the move was described as provocative, sending the wrong signal and undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The command deployed naval and air forces to monitor the transit and stand ready to respond.
Analysts say such naval passages have become flashpoints in a larger geopolitical showdown 🌏. While the U.S. and UK argue they're upholding freedom of navigation, the PLA views them as challenges to the Chinese mainland's sovereignty and regional security.
As tensions simmer, the PLA stresses it remains on high alert in order to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and regional peace and stability, according to Shi. For now, the Taiwan Strait is where global powers continue to test the waters, with every move watched by governments and markets alike.
Reference(s):
PLA slams U.S., UK warships' provocative transit in Taiwan Straits
cgtn.com
