Two U.S. warships have sailed close to islands claimed by China in the disputed South China Sea - a move that could negatively impact on-going trade talks between the two nations.<br />For more on this and other news around the world we turn to our Ro Aram…<br />Aram… what's the latest?<br /><br />Well Mark… the USS Spruance and USS Preble conducted what the U.S. Navy called a freedom of navigation operation within 22 kilometers of the Spratly Islands on Monday.<br />A spokesman for the 7th Fleet said the mission was conducted "in order to challenge excessive maritime claims and preserve access to the waterways as governed by international law."<br />Such exercises have often been carried out by the U.S. Navy and have been the cause diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing. <br />China's foreign ministry issued an angry response. <br /><br />"Relevant activities of the U.S. warships violated China's sovereignty and damaged peace, security and good order in relevant waters. China expresses firm opposition and dissatisfaction to this."<br /><br />The spokesperson also demanded the U.S. stop what she called its "provocative actions," adding he country will take necessary actions to protect state sovereignty.<br />Beijing's warning came as officials from both sides were in the Chinese capital for a new round of trade talks this week.<br />It remains to be seen if Monday's operation will impact the negotiations.<br />China claims most of the energy-rich South China Sea, as do several of its neighbors, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Taiwan.<br />China's claim was largely discredited by an international arbitration tribunal three years ago, but Beijing has rejected the ruling.<br />The Chinese military has since bolstered its presence in the region, deploying military hardware and other defense systems. <br />
