The U.S. Navy announced a joint transit of U.S. and Canadian military vessels through the Taiwan Strait.
As China intensifies pressure on Taiwan, such as by conducting large-scale military exercises, the United States seems to aim to show its unwavering commitment to the region along with its allies.
The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet announced that the guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins and the Canadian Navy frigate USS Vancouver passed through the Taiwan Strait on the 20th.
"The vessel transited a route that did not belong to the territorial waters of any coastal state, demonstrating our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the 7th Fleet said in a statement.
Following the visit of U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan in August, China has further strengthened its military pressure on Taiwan, including by conducting large-scale military exercises. It seems that there is an aim to show an unwavering attitude.
"We will continue to fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows," Pentagon spokesman Ryder said at a press conference on the 20th. It showed recognition that it will pass through the strait.