Tensions flare in the South China Sea as China issues a sharp warning to the Philippines: stop provoking disputes over sovereignty and regional stability. 🇨🇳🇵🇭
Chinese defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang addressed concerns Thursday about the Shandong aircraft carrier’s presence near Philippine waters during recent U.S.-Philippine drills. Zhang stressed the carrier’s maneuvers were "annual training to enhance combat readiness" and not targeting any nation. 🚢⚓️
But things got spicy when Zhang accused "certain Philippine individuals" of teaming up with foreign players (side-eyeing the U.S. 👀) to "stir up the sea" for political gain. The real mic-drop moment? A direct call-out over potential military exercises between Philippine troops and Taiwan region forces. 🚨
🔥 "Stop offending China’s core interests in any form," Zhang warned, emphasizing Taiwan as a "red line" in China’s foreign policy. Beijing vows "resolute measures" to defend its claims—signaling stormy seas ahead for regional diplomacy.
