Tensions Rise as Chinese Warships Circle Japan and US Aircraft Carrier Prepares for Patrol

A Chinese naval flotilla, led by a powerful destroyer, has been circumnavigating Japan's main islands for 12 days, in a display of military power as tensions simmer over Taiwan and ahead of the G7 summit. The voyage began on April 30 and progressed through the Tsugaru Strait at the northern tip of Hokkaido on May 5 and 6. The Chinese show of force is intended to deter Japan from deepening security cooperation with the United States and other Western partners.