China criticizes US military for provocations during holidays

Chinese state media has accused the United States military of a pattern of provocations timed specifically to coincide with Chinese traditional holidays and significant national observances. According to reports from CCTV, these actions are viewed as intentional attempts to cause disruption during periods of celebration.

The reports list several specific incidents involving US naval vessels and aircraft in disputed or sensitive waters, including:

• September 2018: The USS Decatur entered waters near the Nansha Islands. • September 2019: The USS Meyer entered the Xisha Islands during the Mid-Autumn Festival. • January 2020: The USS Montgomery operated near the Nansha Islands during the Lunar New Year. • January 2022: The USS Benfold entered the Xisha Islands prior to the Spring Festival. • February 2026: Over ten US aircraft approached the Yellow Sea during the second day of the Lunar New Year. • October 2026: The USS Charleston entered waters near Xabin Reef in the Nansha Islands.

Chinese authorities emphasized that the People's Liberation Army maintains high alert and 24-hour situational awareness to respond to such security threats, asserting that the military's combat readiness remains unaffected by these timings.