TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US 7th Fleet’s Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday (Aug. 22).

According to the fleet’s press release the routine transit is an act of freedom of navigation and in accordance with international law.

“The ship transited through a corridor in the Strait that is beyond the territorial sea of any coastal state,” the fleet’s commander said. “Ralph Johnson’s transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US’ commitment to upholding freedom of navigation for all nations as a principle.”

The commander added that no member of the international community should be coerced into giving up their freedoms, per CNA.

“The US military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows,” the commander said.