The Facts

• Following the confirmation of his re-election, the pro-Western president of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr., reaffirmed his criticism of China's maritime claims and accused it of violating the sovereignty of his Pacific island nation.

• According to the Whipps Jr., who defeated his brother-in-law 5,626 to 4,103, Chinese vessels continue to enter Palau’s waters uninvited, with the latest incursion allegedly occurring a day after his re-election.

• As Whipps Jr. accuses China of entering its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), he's also been expanding the US' military presence, including a radar outpost and plans to deepen ports for the US Navy to access.