The U.S. Navy’s USS Higgins, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, and the Royal Canadian Navy’s frigate HMCS Vancouver made a bold statement by transiting through the Taiwan Strait on October 20. This joint operation, conducted under international law, highlights the commitment of both nations to uphold freedom of navigation in a region increasingly contested by China. The transit, described as routine and consistent with international law, reinforces the principle that navigational rights and freedoms in international waters should not be restricted.
This move comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan, with China closely monitoring the ships’ movement. While Beijing condemned the transit, U.S. and Canadian forces remain firm in defending their right to operate freely in these critical waters.
