TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A spokesperson of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command accused the U.S. military of engaging in frequent provocative actions that disrupt regional peace and stability on Wednesday (Jan. 24). Shi Yi's remarks followed the passage of the U.S. Navy destroyer John Finn through the Taiwan Strait.
Shi revealed that the PLA had deployed troops to closely monitor the movements of the U.S. warship through the strait and had handled the situation in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. He expressed China's discontent with what he deemed U.S. provocations.
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) issued a statement asserting their full awareness of the U.S. warship's aerial and maritime activities during its passage through the strait. The MND reassured the public that the situation was entirely normal.
The U.S. Navy, in a separate statement, clarified that the transit of the John Finn through the Taiwan Strait was a demonstration of the United States' commitment to upholding the principle of freedom of navigation for all nations.
The Navy emphasized that no member of the international community should feel intimidated or coerced into relinquishing their rights and freedoms. Escalating tensions in the region are attributed to the increased U.S. naval activities and China's territorial claims over Taiwan, which remains a significant global point of contention.
