South China Sea

China’s reluctance has stifled diplomatic efforts—but they haven’t been futile.

There is no sweet spot to keep both Beijing and Washington happy, but that hasn’t kept Singapore from trying.

Once inching toward war, the Asian giants are getting closer—while Washington seems unserious and disengaged.

The United States says it’s ready to call China in a crisis. Will Beijing pick up?

Beijing’s growing aggressiveness is forcing Manila back into Washington’s camp.

Japan’s prime minister visits Washington at a time when, thanks to Chinese aggressiveness, U.S.-Japan relations are critical.

The Navy’s favorite tool in Asia is deeply flawed.

Beijing claims they are fishing vessels. The data shows otherwise.

Boats designed to overwhelm civilian foes can be turned into shields in real conflict.

The dispute around the South China Sea remains the most volatile and vital in U.S.-China relations.

If China is seeking a reset of relations, it has a strange way of showing it.

Though not alone in its destructive practices, Beijing’s rapacious fleet causes humanitarian disasters and has a unique military mission.

India is beefing up its island defenses as Beijing seeks a quicker route to the Indian Ocean.

‘Under Beijing’s Shadow’ lays out in compelling detail how China is working to dominate the region.

The United States has aligned itself on the side of international law, but backing up a tough statement will be hard.

The announcement by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo brings the United States in line with international law and opens the door for sanctions and a more unified response to Chinese “bullying” in the key waterway.

“China is just pushing on all fronts,” a former defense official told Foreign Policy. “I’m worried at some point that the dam is going to break somewhere.”

When the coronavirus crisis is over, China will be forced to embrace a less ambitious future.