New tensions: American warships passed near disputed islands in the South China Sea

A US official said the two destroyers were sailing about 12 nautical miles from Mischief Reef, which is part of the disputed Spratly Islands.
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American ships during one of the earlier entries into the South China Sea, Photo: Reuters
American ships during one of the earlier entries into the South China Sea, Photo: Reuters
Disclaimer: The translations are mostly done through AI translator and might not be 100% accurate.

Two American warships passed near an island in the South China Sea that China claims to claim, an unnamed American official said today, Tanjug reports.

This, according to Reuters, could anger Beijing in conditions of tense relations between the world's two largest economies.

The official said the two destroyers were sailing about 12 nautical miles from Mischief Reef, which is part of the disputed Spratly Islands.

China claims most of the strategic waterway of the South China Sea and has built islands on the reefs, equipping them with military facilities, the British agency reminds.

Relations between the US and China have worsened due to the escalating trade dispute, especially ahead of March 1, when the deadline for reaching a trade agreement between the two countries expires.

China angry

China's Foreign Ministry expressed anger today after two US warships passed near islands in the South China Sea claimed by China.

"American ships entered those waters without China's permission," Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a press conference, according to Reuters.

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