China steps up maritime challenges to Taiwan, Japan

FILE - In this photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, a Chinese coast guard ship uses water canons on a Philippine Coast Guard ship near the Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal, South China Sea during a re-supply mission on Aug. 5, 2023.

The Chinese coast guard has increased its activities in disputed waters near Taiwan and Japan in recent days, forcing Taipei and Tokyo to engage in tense standoffs with Chinese coast guard vessels.