US Senators Urge Biden to Aid Philippines Against China

Republican U.S. senators, including Roger Wicker and Jim Risch, have urged President Biden to provide a comprehensive list of military, diplomatic, and economic options to aid the Philippines in its disputes with China over the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Tensions escalated after a clash where a Filipino sailor was injured, prompting calls for visible support to honor bilateral commitments. The U.S., bound by a mutual defense treaty, faces pressure to assist the Philippines in the contested waters, with concerns over China's aggressive behavior and the need for substantial responses. While the Philippines has not formally requested U.S. help in resupply missions, the senators emphasize the importance of concrete actions beyond verbal assurances to sustain credibility and deter further escalation.