The U.S. is confirming that a U.S. Navy ship did sail through the South China Sea, the region of sandbars and tiny islands that is claimed by China and other nations.
According to the Chinese Defence Ministry, two Chinese destroyers warned the ship to leave, claiming their route was provocative and illegal.
White House spokesman Josh Earnest says the operation was about free and fair navigation in international waters.
IN: "The U.S.S. Decatur...
OUT: ...international law."
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