US Navy destroyer enters 12 nautical miles of artificial islands built by China in South China Sea

A U.S. Navy destroyer came within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands built by China in the South China Sea, a U.S. official told Reuters, describing it as a "freedom of navigation" operation.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the destroyer Decatur traveled within 12 nautical miles of Gaven and Johnson Reefs in the Spratly Islands. 

(With inputs from agencies.)