Taiwanese coast guard vessels are conducting patrol missions at sea.
Taiwanese coast guard vessels are conducting patrols at sea. The United States recently expressed concern about China's activities in the waters east of Taiwan, noting that such actions could escalate regional tensions.

Taipei/Washington — The US State Department says Chinese activities in waters east of Taiwan are heightening regional tensions, urging Beijing to stop pressuring Taiwan and address cross-strait differences through meaningful dialogue.

According to a Reuters report on Oct. 10, a State Department spokesperson, responding to questions about Chinese maritime militia vessels spotted east of Taiwan, said the actions had a “deeply destabilizing” effect.

The report said the waters east of Taiwan are strategically important. Taiwan officials consider maritime activity in the area worthy of close attention because the waters could become part of sea resupply routes between Taiwan and external partners in the event of a blockade or conflict.

Taiwan’s Coast Guard said the Chinese maritime militia vessels and accompanying ships that had drawn attention earlier were operating outside restricted waters. Maritime militias generally consist of fishing-boat crews that receive training or support and may operate alongside forces such as the China Coast Guard.

Reuters reported that China has increased its activity east of Taiwan since June 2026, including regular China Coast Guard patrols. The United Kingdom, France, Germany and the US have previously expressed concern about Chinese activity in the area, saying it could affect regional stability and freedom of navigation.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, but Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claim. Although the US does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it remains one of Taiwan’s most important international supporters.

Maritime activity does not in itself mean that a blockade or military conflict has begun. Its intentions must still be assessed based on vessel movements, official statements and other verifiable information. For Taiwan, maintaining maritime traffic, reducing the risk of miscalculation and maintaining communication with regional partners will remain key security issues under close watch.