US, allies conduct drills in disputed South China Sea

The United States, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines conducted joint naval and air exercises in the South China Sea, emphasizing adherence to international law amid rising Chinese territorial claims. The drills included sea passage and anti-submarine maneuvers. In response, China conducted its own patrols. The U.S. and allies reaffirmed a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated China's claims, which Beijing continues to reject.