Vietnam Expands South China Sea Islands, Philippines Rejects China's Prior Notice

Vietnam is increasing its island expansion in the South China Sea, with the recent creation of 210 acres of land at Barque Canada Reef. This expansion is part of Vietnam's efforts to assert its claims in the contested area. The Philippines rejects China's call for prior notice on resupply missions to Filipino soldiers stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China raise concerns about a potential armed confrontation, with both countries testing the involvement of the United States.