Trump Defense Chief Seeks Diplomatic Push in South China Sea
- Mattis sees no need for dramatic military moves at this time
- China lashes Mattis comments on isles in dispute with Japan
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Diplomatic efforts should be exhausted to resolve the South China Sea dispute, said U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis, weeks after Secretary of State Rex Tillerson appeared to advocate a tougher stance.
Speaking in Tokyo after a meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Tomomi Inada, Mattis accused China of "shredding the trust" of its neighbors. He said freedom of navigation remained absolute and that all nations should "play by the rules."