Senator Schmitt Calls for Answers from DOD Regarding Escalating Tensions in the South China Sea

WASHINGTON – Recently, Senator Eric Schmitt called on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin for answers regarding the escalating tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China sea:

“As China and the Philippines work toward implementing the recent agreement regarding resupply missions for Filipino personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre at Second ThomasShoal, I am requesting a classified briefing from Department of Defense officials to understand the disposition of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the area and to assess the potential implications for U.S. interests and regional security,” said Senator Eric Schmitt. 

BACKGROUND: 

• The South China Sea is a focal point of territorial disputes involving multiple nations, including the People’s Republic of China and the Philippines.
• Retired Admiral John Aquilino has previously warned that China is becoming more aggressive in both its behavior and rhetoric across the Asia-Pacific region, Bloomberg previously reported. 
• Tensions between China and the Philippines reached an all-time high in March, after China’s Coast Guard employed a water cannon against Philippine ships in the South China sea.
• The PRC’s aggressive and unlawful actions, including the construction of artificial islands and the militarization of these outposts, pose a direct challenge to the Philippines’ sovereignty and maritime rights. Despite the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in favor of the Philippines, which unequivocally invalidated China’s “Nine-Dash Line” claims, the PRC has continued its belligerent actions.
• The June 17th incident near the Second Thomas Shoal, where PRC vessels employed aggressive tactics such as the use of water cannons against Philippine ships and caused at least one Philippine sailor’s significant injury, underscores the increasing volatility of the situation.

Read the full letter here.