"Philippines Condemns China's Water Cannon Attack in South China Sea"

The United States expresses support for the Philippines after the Coast Guard and maritime militia of China obstructed a Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The actions by China are deemed inconsistent with international law and threaten regional peace and stability. The United States calls on China to respect the freedom of navigation and abide by the 2016 arbitral ruling, which states that China has no lawful claim to the area. The U.S. also reaffirms its mutual defense commitments to the Philippines in the event of an armed attack in the South China Sea.