Austin noted that the US is also committed to deterring North Korea's missile threat and China’s claims on Taiwan. China disagreed with Austin’s claim that Beijing is unwilling to engage on military crisis management. Lieutenant General Jing Jianfeng said that Beijing reiterates its sovereignty over islands in the South China Sea and adjacent waters. Austin called for China to engage in regular, direct communications to prevent a possible conflict. The defense secretary underscored that big countries invading their peaceful neighbors with impunity is dangerous, citing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Source: The Guardian June 03, 2023 15:07 UTC