The Chinese coast guard came in small boats with axes, long knives and spears.
They used the crude weapons to slash and puncture the Philippine military’s rubber craft. One Chinese boat rammed a Philippine boat at high speed, severing the thumb of a Filipino seaman who was holding on to the side of his ride.
Video footage isn’t paywalled for those interested in viewing it without a subscription or an archive link.
What was the fucking point of this? It seems so stupid and petty. Like why even go through the trouble?
I know there have been maritime issues between China and others within the last few years or so, but seriously - what is the fucking point of doing this?
The very next day, Malaysia’s leader praised China.
Make of that what you will.
I did not know this - it definitely adds context. Thank you!