U.S. Considering Sending A Warship Through The Taiwan Strait

The USS Lassen (DDG 82) patrolling the eastern Pacific Ocean. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Huey D. Younger Jr.

Reuters: Exclusive: At delicate moment, U.S. weighs warship passage through Taiwan Strait

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States is considering sending a warship through the Taiwan Strait, U.S. officials say, in a move that could provoke a sharp reaction from Beijing at a time when Sino-U.S. ties are under pressure from trade disputes and the North Korean nuclear crisis.

A U.S. warship passage, should it happen, could be seen in Taiwan as a fresh sign of support by President Donald Trump after a series of Chinese military drills around the self-ruled island. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

U.S. officials told Reuters that the United States had already examined plans for an aircraft carrier passage once this year but ultimately did not pursue them, perhaps because of concerns about upsetting China.

The last time a U.S. aircraft carrier transited the Taiwan Strait was in 2007, during the administration of George W. Bush, and some U.S. military officials believe a carrier transit is overdue.

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WNU Editor: China is already issuing warnings .... China urges United States to properly handle Taiwan issue (Reuters). More here .... China Warns Washington as US Reportedly Mulls Sending Warship to Taiwan Strait (Sputnik)

More News On Reports That The U.S. May Send A Warship Through The Taiwan Strait

The Navy Might Be Getting Ready to Sail Through the Taiwan Strait -- National Interest
US mulls sending warship via Taiwan Strait -- News.com.au
US may send navy ship through Taiwan Strait -- Sydney Morning Herald
US considering sending warships through Taiwan Strait -- Taiwan News