Japan has lodged a strong protest with China after a Chinese naval vessel entered Japanese territorial waters near Kuchinoerabu Island, just days following a Chinese military aircraft incursion into Japanese airspace. This incident has further strained relations, as Japan recently requested its largest ever defense budget to counter regional threats. Meanwhile, tensions in the South China Sea have escalated, with China and the Philippines accusing each other of deliberate collisions between their coast guard vessels. The United States condemned China's actions as 'dangerous and escalatory,' supporting the Philippines' navigation rights in its exclusive economic zone. Additionally, China criticized Japan's remarks on these maritime disputes, urging Tokyo to reflect on its actions and contribute to regional stability.