US to Defend Philippines Against Chinese Aggression in South China Sea
Biden's Warning Amid Escalating Tensions
Breaking News Summary
US President Joe Biden has declared that the United States will defend the Philippines against any potential Chinese attacks in the disputed South China Sea, a development that has heightened tensions between the two nations.
Background
The Philippines has accused China's Coast Guard of using violent tactics with bladed weapons during a maritime clash in the South China Sea earlier this month, leaving Filipino personnel injured and vessels damaged.
China claims sovereignty over a vast majority of the South China Sea, which is also claimed by several other nations, including the Philippines.
US Response
In response to this incident, Biden stated that the US has "a legal obligation" under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty to defend the Philippines if it is attacked.
The US has also deployed two aircraft carrier groups to the South China Sea, a move widely seen as a show of force against China.
China's Reaction
China has expressed "extreme alarm" over the US's deployment of missiles in the region, and has warned that it will take "all necessary measures" to protect its interests.
China has long maintained that its actions in the South China Sea are legal and justified, and has accused the Philippines of provoking the recent incident.
Regional Concerns
The escalating tensions between the US and China in the South China Sea have raised concerns about a potential military conflict in the region.
Several countries, including Japan, Australia, and Southeast Asian nations, have called for restraint from both sides and urged diplomatic solutions.
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