China returns underwater drone u s condemns unlawful seizure

Here's a summary of the situation:

Background: In August 2015, the United States Navy deployed an underwater drone, known as the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV), in the South China Sea to conduct a scientific research mission. The drone was designed to collect data on ocean currents, temperature, and other environmental factors.

Incident: On October 16, 2015, the Chinese Navy seized the UUV while it was operating in international waters, claiming that it had entered Chinese territorial waters without permission. The Chinese Navy took the drone to a Chinese naval base in Sanya, Hainan Province.

US Response: The United States government strongly condemned the seizure, calling it an "unlawful" and "unjustified" act. The US State Department issued a statement saying that the drone was operating in international waters, and that China had no right to seize it. The US Navy also issued a statement, saying that the drone was conducting a "routine" mission and that its seizure was "unacceptable".

International Reaction: The incident sparked concerns about China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, where it has been building artificial islands and militarizing them. The incident also raised questions about the rules of engagement in international waters and the protection of freedom of navigation.

Aftermath: The US government has since demanded the return of the drone, but China has refused, citing concerns about the drone's "sensitive" technology. The incident has strained relations between the US and China, and has raised concerns about the potential for future incidents in the South China Sea.

Key Quotes:

• "The United States is deeply concerned by China's seizure of the unmanned underwater vehicle. This is an unlawful and unjustified act." - US State Department spokesperson
• "The Chinese Navy's seizure of the UUV is unacceptable and a clear violation of international law." - US Navy spokesperson
• "China's actions are a serious concern and a threat to the stability of the region." - US Defense Secretary Ash Carter

Sources:

• "China Seizes US Underwater Drone in South China Sea" - The New York Times
• "US Condemns China's Seizure of Underwater Drone" - Reuters
• "China Refuses to Return US Underwater Drone" - CNN
• "US Demands Return of Seized Underwater Drone" - The Washington Post