China-Taiwan Tensions Escalating, United States Missile Destroyer Arrives In Taiwan

The USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54) missile destroyer of the United States. (Wikimedia Commons/US Navy/Photographer's Mate Airman Dustin Howell)

JAKARTA - The Arleigh Burke-class missile destroyer belonging to the United States USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54) is present in sensitive waters separating Taiwan from China, amid tensions between the two countries.

The US Navy's 7th Fleet, which houses USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54), said it carried out a regular 'transit' across the Taiwan Strait on Tuesdays, in accordance with international law.

"The transit of ships through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows," the 7th Fleet said in a statement as quoted by Reuters, Wednesday, May 19.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Defense Ministry said the ship was sailing south through the Taiwan Strait. They called the presence of US warships a 'situation as usual'.

The United States, like most countries, does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, it is the most important international supporter and major arms dealer.

The US Navy routinely 'sends' its warships every month or more, which angers China, which always denounces them.

Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated in recent months, along with the presence of warships and fighter jets belonging to China near Taiwanese territory.

Early last month, China sent the Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Combat Group to hold exercises near Taiwanese waters. A week later, 15 Chinese aircraft, including 12 warplanes, approached Taiwan's air defense zone.

The Chinese Navy said it was sending the Liaoning Carrier, the first aircraft carrier in China's military ranks, to conduct exercises to protect China's sovereignty in these waters.

"The aim is to increase capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty, safety, and development interests," said the Chinese Navy at the time.

In response, the missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) docked four times in the Taiwan Strait during February - April. Despite criticism from China, the United States will continue to present its military in the region.

"What we have seen and what is of real concern to us is, the Beijing Government's increasingly aggressive actions directed at Taiwan are increasing tensions in the Taiwan Strait," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month.