US says China's maritime actions off Taiwan 'deeply destabilising'

The US State Department has labeled China's maritime actions off Taiwan's east coast as deeply destabilizing, following the first known sighting of a Chinese militia boat in those waters in August. China, which considers Taiwan as its territory, has intensified its presence in the region since June through regular coast guard patrols.

Taiwan, which rejects China's sovereignty claims, believes China is preparing for a potential maritime blockade utilizing a combination of military, paramilitary, and civilian assets. The area off Taiwan's east coast is crucial for wartime supply routes from allies should a blockade or conflict arise. The US remains vigilant about China's activities east of Taiwan, deeming them destabilizing and urging Beijing to cease its pressure against Taiwan.

China, however, recognizes no sovereignty claims by Taiwan and maintains its maritime militia, consisting of fishing vessels trained for disputed waters, akin to past practices around the South China Sea.