China and US Engage in Joint Maritime Operations near Taiwan

The Philippines and the United States have begun joint air and sea patrols in the South China Sea to push back against China's assertive actions in the region. China has been actively asserting its claim to contested islands, reefs, and atolls in the Spratly Islands archipelago, leading to numerous diplomatic protests from the Philippines. However, skepticism about the depth of the US commitment to defend the Philippines' territories is rising, as memories of past inaction linger. China's immediate aim is to prevent the Philippines from resupplying and repairing a grounded warship, while its long-term goal is to convince all claimants to acknowledge its historic rights to the entire South China Sea. China's tactics may be backfiring, as they are pushing the Philippines closer to the United States.