Chinese and Philippine ships collide in the South China Sea

On Monday, June 17, Chinese and Philippine ships collided in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. After the incident, Beijing and Manila exchanged accusations of provocation.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to Reuters.

According to the Chinese Coast Guard, the Philippine supply ship "deliberately and dangerously" approached the Chinese vessel, which led to a minor collision. The PRC claims that this happened after the Philippine vessel “illegally intruded” into the waters near the Second Thomas Shoal.

The Chinese coast guard also said that the Philippine ship ignored repeated warnings for transportation and resupply.

Manila rejected Beijing's accusations, calling them "misleading."

The Philippine Task Force in the South China Sea reported that Chinese vessels were involved in ramming and towing, posing a risk to life and damaging boats.

The Philippine side says that its Armed Forces will resist China's actions in the disputed waters amid a new case of a collision between ships in the waters.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines must resist China's dangerous and reckless behavior in the West Philippine Sea. China's actions are a real obstacle to peace and stability in the South China Sea," said Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 18/06/2024