US Destroyer USS Ralph Johnson Taiwan Strait, Prompting Chinese Military Response

The passage through the contested waterway underscores ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan's status.

The USS Ralph Johnson's transit marks the first US warship passage through the Taiwan Strait in over three months.
China's military monitored the transit, labeling it 'public hype' and maintaining high alert status.
The US Navy asserts the passage supports international law and freedom of navigation principles.
Taiwan's defense ministry confirmed the transit and reported no unusual activity during the passage.
The transit follows recent increased military activity by China around Taiwan, including fighter jets and naval vessels.