SCMP: Beijing tried to block Philippine military facilities on disputed island ‘over fears US could use them’

China’s deployment of a large fleet of vessels to the Philippines-held Thitu Island in the South China Sea is aimed at blocking the country’s construction of military facilities on the disputed island in the Spratly chain because it is concerned that the United States will be able to use such facilities, diplomatic observers said.

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Previously: Beijing sends ships to disputed island ‘to stop Philippines building’