Add the Russian Bear to the volatile soup.
China’s imperialism, claiming the Sea’s resources as its own, have angered the smaller countries around the waterway .. Vietnam and Philippines. Aside from resources, the South China Sea is the major waterway for all commerce between East Asia and the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Months prior to Pearl Harbor WWII may have begun when the US blockaded the the opening of the South China Sea to the Indian Ocean. Deprived of oil, Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor seems less than infamous.
The US fanned the fires of what would become WWII. Now China now is playing with fire by flexing military muscle rather than its mightier commercial weaponry. Islands in international waters are being turned in to Chinese military bases. The US has responded diplomatically and quietly by increasing its naval force. Philippines have turned to the US for support. Vientnam, always wanting to ensure its Independence is partnering with Russia .. opening Cam Ran Bay to nuclear submarines and long range aircraft. In return Putin is supplying Vietnam with submarines and missiles able to take down ships from China.