Taiwan's defense ministry reported spotting two Chinese warships near its Penghu islands, prompting heightened alert status for Taiwanese forces. The naval presence occurred as regional tensions continue over Taiwan's status and China's territorial claims.

Separately at the United Nations, Chinese representatives denounced remarks made by Japan and the European Union regarding the South China Sea situation. The diplomatic exchanges reflect ongoing disagreements over maritime territorial disputes in the region.

The Penghu islands, also known as the Pescadores, lie in the Taiwan Strait between mainland China and Taiwan. Chinese naval activities in these waters have increased in recent years as part of broader military exercises and patrols in the area.

At the UN forum, China's criticism of Japan and EU statements suggests continued international disagreement over navigation rights and territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea. Multiple nations maintain competing claims over various islands and maritime zones in the strategic waterway.

These developments represent the latest incidents in ongoing regional tensions involving China's territorial assertions and military activities near Taiwan and in disputed South China Sea waters.