Chinese Coast Guard patrols east of Taiwan spark Western alarm

China deployed several Coast Guard vessels and survey ships to waters east of Taiwan in early June, describing the deployment as a “special maritime traffic law‑enforcement operation” aimed at exercising jurisdiction and safeguarding sovereignty. Beijing said the patrols responded to plans by Japan and the Philippines to discuss maritime boundary delimitations that China views as involving its own waters.

The United States, United Kingdom, France and Germany issued a rare joint statement condemning the activity, saying it threatens regional stability, freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping. Taiwan’s National Security Council thanked the four allies and reiterated that open sea lanes are vital for global trade. The U.S. State Department called the patrols “deeply destabilising,” while China’s foreign ministry defended them as lawful, necessary actions.

The episode highlights growing tension over Taiwan’s surrounding seas, with China increasing grey‑zone pressure and Western partners reaffirming support for a rules‑based maritime order.