China’s defence ministry on Monday condemned a U.S. Navy destroyer’s passage through the Taiwan Strait, saying its forces tracked and warned the vessel during the transit. Beijing said the move amounted to outside interference in what it considers a sensitive waterway.

The U.S. Navy has regularly carried out transits through the strait, which separates Taiwan from mainland China and remains one of the most closely watched flashpoints in Asia. Washington says such operations are routine and consistent with international law.

The latest exchange highlights the continued tension over Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory while Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Military encounters around the island and nearby waters have increased concern about miscalculation and escalation.

Neither side reported any incident beyond the verbal warnings, but the episode underscores how quickly naval activity in the region can trigger diplomatic friction between the world’s two largest militaries.