The USS John S. McCain collided with an oil tanker before dawn on Monday, sending water flooding into the hull and sparking a four-nation search for the missing men.

US president Donald Trump, asked on returning to the White House after his holiday for his response to the collision, replied: “That’s too bad” – comments that were roundly condemned on social media.

Mr Trump later tweeted: “Thoughts & prayers are w/ our @USNavy sailors aboard the #USSJohnSMcCain where search & rescue efforts are underway.”