Tensions Rising in the South China Sea: US, Japan, and the Philippines at Odds over Military Exercises and Chinese Aggression

The recent military exercises held in the South China Sea, with Japanese and European soldiers acting as observers, have sparked controversy between the United States, Japan, and the Philippines. While Marcos believes that these exercises will change the dynamics of Southeast Asia, Asia, and the South China Sea in the future, China sees them differently.

According to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, the exercises will have a destructive effect on regional security. In response to this statement, the Philippine government pointed out China’s aggressive behavior, exaggerated claims, and construction of military bases in the region.

The tensions escalated further when China’s People’s Liberation Army created artificial islands in the South China Sea and built military bases. The Philippine and US navies are now rehearsing storming fortified islands to demonstrate their capabilities to China.

In Washington, there is concern over the war of words between China and the Philippines as the risk of military escalation in the South China Sea is high. The hope is that increased US military presence will deter China from attacking Philippine ships. However, instead of responding positively to increased US presence, China sent more ships to the disputed area and increased patrols.