China’s Aggression in the South China Sea: A Challenge to U.S. and Regional Sovereignty

China’s recent declaration that its military ‘expelled’ the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Higgins from contested waters near Scarborough Shoal (Huangyan Island) in the South China Sea serves as a stark reminder of Beijing’s aggressive posture and blatant challenge to America’s commitment to freedom of navigation.

Is China Defying International Norms at Our Expense?

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) claims the USS Higgins entered these waters without permission, accusing Washington of violating Chinese sovereignty. Yet, these same waters are internationally recognized as open seas under international law, making China’s broad territorial claims both unlawful and dangerous. This isn’t just a dispute over geography; it is an attempt by Beijing to rewrite maritime rules on its own terms, undermining global trade routes that sustain American prosperity.

For decades, the United States has stood as a guarantor of open seas and lawful passage. But how long can Washington tolerate such brazen provocations before Asia-Pacific security degrades further? The stakes are high: nearly one-third of global maritime commerce passes through this vital region, including enormous volumes critical to American consumers and businesses.

Why Does This Matter for America’s Future?

The escalation comes amid intensified tensions between China and regional allies like the Philippines, who have suffered not only verbal threats but also dangerous naval maneuvers by Chinese vessels—including alleged use of water cannons against Philippine coast guard ships.

This pattern demonstrates how China uses coercion to pressure smaller neighbors while ignoring their sovereign rights—a direct affront to the principles of national sovereignty that underpin America First policy. Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration aligned more closely with the U.S., Beijing has ramped up hostile actions rather than seeking peaceful dialogue.

America must respond with clear resolve—not empty rhetoric—to defend our allies and uphold lawful navigation. The Trump administration set a precedent by challenging Chinese expansionism head-on; current policymakers should follow this example by strengthening military presence, deepening alliances, and enforcing international law robustly.

China’s attempts at maritime domination threaten economic security, regional peace, and ultimately American freedom itself. Will Washington rise to confront this challenge or allow Chinese ambitions to go unchecked?