The US military warned Thursday (Friday in Manila) its warships would be “more assertive” in responding to violations of international law, citing in particular Beijing, which it said had expansionist ambitions in the South China Sea. In a document setting objectives for the US Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard for the coming years, the Pentagon stressed that several countries, notably Russia and China, “are contesting the balance of power in key regions and seeking to undermine the existing world order.” “Our globally deployed naval forces interact with Chinese and Russian warships and aircraft daily,” the document said, noting their “growing aggressiveness” and calling China “the most pressing, long-term strategic threat.”

US vows to be 'more assertive' in responding to sea violations. (2020, December 19). Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.