Russian Naval Vessels Enter U.S. Waters Near Alaska

The U.S. Coast Guard tracked a group of Russian naval vessels, including two submarines, a frigate, and a tugboat, that crossed into U.S. waters off Alaska on September 15, 2024, in an apparent effort to avoid sea ice. This maneuver, which involved venturing approximately 30 miles into the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is permitted under international rules and customs. The encounter occurred nearly 60 miles northwest of Point Hope and was monitored by the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton, part of Operation Frontier Sentinel aimed at maintaining a U.S. presence in the region. Rear Adm. Megan Dean emphasized the Coast Guard's commitment to safeguarding U.S. sovereign interests and fish stocks in the Bering Sea, Bering Strait, and Chukchi Sea. This incident follows increased military activity in the Arctic, including previous interceptions of Russian and Chinese bombers by U.S. forces. The situation underscores ongoing tensions and strategic competition in the region.