Chinese coast guard ships used water cannons and rammed a Philippine government vessel off Thitu Island in the disputed South China Sea, causing minor damage but no injuries, the Philippine coast guard said.

Two other Philippine fisheries vessels were also targeted, with the Chinese side claiming the ships had entered Chinese waters near Sandy Cay without permission.

The Philippines condemned the aggressive maneuvers, asserting they will not surrender any territory, while the U.S. expressed support for Manila and criticized China’s actions.

China maintains its claim over nearly the entire South China Sea despite a 2016 arbitration ruling invalidating its claims, the Associated Press has reported.

Thitu Island, part of the Spratlys, hosts Philippine forces and a fishing community, while China has built seven artificial islands nearby, some with runways and missile systems.