China Captures Disputed Reef in South China Sea and Raises Its Flag: FT

China has captured a disputed reef near a Philippine military base in the South China Sea. This was reported by the Financial Times.

According to the publication, Chinese soldiers have raised the flag of the People's Republic of China on Sandy Cay, declaring it their territory. “This is the first time in many years that Beijing, which claims the South China Sea, has officially placed its flag in another previously unoccupied area,” the publication notes.

It is emphasized that this event occurred ahead of Philippine-American military exercises.