China Tells U.S. to Restrain Forces Near Shoal in South China Sea

China condemned the USS Higgins for sailing near Scarborough Shoal just days after a China–Philippines at-sea pursuit
View of the guided missile destroyer USS Higgins conducting a freedom of navigation operation near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on August 13, 2025. Image via the Philippine Coast Guard.

China condemned the U.S. after a naval vessel, USS Higgins, sailed near Scarborough Shoal just days after a China–Philippines at-sea pursuit. Beijing is calling the U.S. move an illegal intrusion and warning Washington to “restrain” its forces.

The U.S. Navy rejected Beijing’s account, saying the transit upheld lawful freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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