Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr warns of nuclear anxiety after China’s South Pacific missile test

China launched a nuclear‑capable ballistic missile with a dummy warhead into the South Pacific, claiming the test was consistent with international law and not targeted at any country. The launch was conducted without prior notification to Palau, which lies in the missile’s trajectory.

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr said the unannounced test heightens nuclear anxiety across the Pacific and urged regional nations to cooperate on reducing geopolitical tensions. He cited Palau’s nuclear‑free constitution, the Hague Code of Conduct on pre‑launch notifications, and called on China to respect international treaties and sovereign safety. Whipps also contrasted China’s approach with the United States, noting that U.S. missile activities in the region are coordinated with nearby nations.

The president’s remarks underscore broader concerns about a rapid buildup of nuclear capability and the need for transparent, collaborative security measures in the Pacific.