France Deploys Nuclear Carrier to Indo-Pacific, Signaling China

France is deploying its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, on a mission that may include a historic visit to Japan, signaling a strategic message to China and other regional powers. The mission, named Clemenceau 25, will cover the eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Southeast Asia, with planned port visits to the Philippines and Japan. The deployment aims to strengthen ties with allies through joint exercises with navies from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and Japan.