U.S. Coast Guard Monitoring Increased Activity from Russian and Chinese Navies Near Alaska, Report Says

TAIPEI (Reuters) – The U.S. Coast Guard has observed an increase in naval activity from China and Russia around Alaska and the northern Pacific, although interactions so far have been conducted in a very professional manner, according to a senior commander.

Vice Admiral Andrew J. Tiongson, the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander, shared these insights during a call with regional reporters while visiting Japan. He highlighted the maritime boundary shared by the U.S. and Russia between Alaska and the Russian Far East.

“We have definitely noted an increase in the presence of Russian naval vessels in that specific region. Additionally, we are seeing more collaboration between the People’s Republic of China’s Navy and the Russian Navy,” he stated.

Tiongson mentioned that their operations have been ongoing over the past couple of years, and there are instances when these vessels enter the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

“In response, we ensure our presence is felt. We communicate effectively, and they sometimes inform us that they are merely transiting and will exit our EEZ shortly. Other times, we monitor and shadow their activities,” he explained.

He added that the U.S. Coast Guard shares intelligence with the U.S. military and Canada, noting that all encounters with Russian or Chinese forces have remained professional thus far.

Tiongson also addressed inquiries regarding the Philippines and the ongoing tensions with China around Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, where China’s Coast Guard has engaged in a standoff regarding the resupply of a grounded Philippine navy ship.

He clarified that while the U.S. Coast Guard has not been requested to escort Philippine vessels, they have been providing advisory and support services in other capacities. “When I mention advising and assisting, we work with the Philippine Coast Guard and others to help them strategize, but we do not accompany their vessels,” he concluded.