US Coast Guard increases surveillance
A Russian military intelligence vessel has raised concern after being detected close to US territorial waters near Hawaii. The Kareliya, a Vishnya-class spy ship, was spotted on 29 October about 15 nautical miles south of Oahu, placing it just beyond the 12-nautical-mile limit defined by international law. The US Coast Guard immediately deployed a helicopter and a patrol vessel to monitor the ship’s movements and ensure maritime security in the surrounding Pacific waters.
Strategic vigilance in the Pacific region
According to US authorities, foreign military ships may operate legally in international waters, yet proximity to Hawaii prompts heightened observation. Coast Guard officials stressed that routine monitoring of maritime activity around the Hawaiian Islands is essential to protect American vessels and support homeland defense. Captain Matthew Chong highlighted ongoing coordination with partners and allies to track foreign naval activity near US borders.
In recent months, other suspicious Russian vessels have been intercepted in allied waters, including a so-called “ghost tanker” boarded by French forces off Saint-Nazaire earlier in October. While the Russian embassy in Washington has not commented, US officials maintain that surveillance in the Pacific Ocean remains a priority to safeguard sovereign interests.
