Key facts
- China's coast guard used water cannons against a Philippine vessel at the Second Thomas Shoal.
- The US embassy in Manila condemned China's actions as provocative.
- The Chinese embassy in Manila accused the US of interfering in South China Sea affairs.
The US and Chinese embassies in Manila have engaged in a public dispute following a recent incident at the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. China's coast guard deployed water cannons against a Philippine vessel during a resupply mission, an action that drew sharp criticism from the United States.
The US embassy in Manila issued a statement condemning the Chinese actions, labeling them as "provocative" and a "threat to regional stability." The embassy reiterated US support for the Philippines, a treaty ally, and its maritime rights.
In response, the Chinese embassy in Manila accused the US of "fanning flames" and interfering in issues related to the South China Sea. The embassy stated that China's actions were a legitimate response to Philippine provocations and that the US should cease its interference.