Tensions Rise as South China Sea Becomes Hotbed of International Activity

China conducted live-fire drills in the South China Sea while the US and Philippine navies carried out joint sea and air patrols. The Chinese navy announced no-entry zones near Hainan island for military training, while the US-Philippine joint patrol started in the Philippines' northernmost point and ended in the Philippine exclusive economic zone. The Chinese Southern Theatre Command criticized Manila for involving external forces in the disputed waters, but stated that the Yuncheng's mission was not in response to the joint patrol. The Philippines seeks closer ties with the US and has agreed to increase American military access to Philippine bases.