China has reiterated its strong opposition to the United States’ deployment of intermediate-range missiles in the Philippines, highlighting concerns about regional peace. During a recent press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the presence of the U.S. land-based Mid-Range Capability missile system, stating that it undermines peace and security in the Asia-Pacific.
Mao argued that deploying offensive weapons near China’s borders threatens regional stability and disregards neighboring nations’ security concerns. The U.S. first stationed the Typhon missile system, capable of reaching Chinese targets, at the Laoag International Airport in April. Both China and Russia have demanded its removal, claiming the deployment could spark an arms race.
The missile deployment marks a significant shift as it is the first of its kind in the region since the Cold War and since the U.S. withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty in 2019.
U.S. officials, however, have shown no intent to withdraw the Typhon system despite China’s demands. Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. has expressed support for keeping the missile system in place indefinitely.
This tension follows U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent remarks criticizing China’s actions in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims based on historical grounds. Mao defended China’s sovereignty in the region and accused external countries of stoking tensions by increasing their military presence.