U.S. Pledges Support for Philippines' Resupply Mission Amid Rising Tensions with China

Jul 20, 2024, 01:46 AM

The United States has pledged support for the Philippines in its efforts to resupply a ship on the Second Thomas Shoal, which Manila uses to reinforce its territorial claims to the atoll. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the U.S. 'will do what is necessary' to ensure the resupply mission's success. Sullivan also mentioned that the U.S. might invoke the mutual defense treaty with the Philippines if tensions escalate, and did not rule out a possible U.S. naval role in the situation. Tensions are rising between the U.S. and China over these Filipino territorial claims.