Escalating Tensions: China's Aggressive Maritime Actions in the South China Sea

Satellite photos reveal that dozens of Chinese maritime militia ships are occupying a disputed territory in the South China Sea, known as Whitsun Reef, which is claimed by both China and the Philippines. The reef is located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, but China's maritime militia is using fishing boats to assert control over the area. The fleet has been accused of engaging in unsafe and aggressive actions by the US State Department. The Chinese ships were seen rafted together near the reef, establishing semi-persistent floating outposts. The presence of the militia boats is part of China's strategy to gradually expand its reach in the South China Sea.