Springfield Standard

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 Thomas Shoal, 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.

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 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 actions, including constructing artificial islands and militarizing these outposts, pose a direct challenge to Philippine sovereignty and maritime rights. Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration favoring the Philippines, which invalidated China's "Nine-Dash Line" claims, PRC has continued its assertive actions.

The June 17th incident near Second Thomas Shoal, where PRC vessels used water cannons against Philippine ships resulting in significant injury to at least one Philippine sailor, underscores increasing volatility.

Read the full letter here.