US Navy Vessels Complete First Taiwan Strait Transit Since Trump’s Inauguration

The US Navy has confirmed the successful transit of two naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait, marking the first such mission since President Donald Trump's inauguration. The vessels involved were the USS Ralph Johnson and the USNS Bowditch, which completed their passage from February 10 to 12. The US military emphasized that the transit occurred in a corridor beyond any coastal state's territorial seas, maintaining that it was a routine exercise that supports freedom of navigation. China has reacted strongly, with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stating they monitored the vessels' movements and warned that the US actions could escalate security risks in the region. The PLA voiced concerns that the US was sending 'wrong signals' and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. This incident reflects ongoing tensions between the US and China over Taiwan's status and military presence in the area.