UPDATE: A Russian military intelligence vessel, the Kareliya, was spotted just 15 nautical miles off the coast of Hawaii on October 29, prompting immediate alerts from U.S. officials in Washington D.C. The U.S. Coast Guard is actively monitoring the ship’s movements, ensuring maritime security in the region.
The Kareliya, classified as a Vishnya-class intelligence vessel, was detected approximately 15 nautical miles south of Oahu. The Coast Guard stated that it is “acting in accordance with international law” to ensure the safety of U.S. vessels operating in the area while supporting homeland defense efforts.
An HC-130J Hercules from Air Station Barbers Point and the USCGC William Hart (WPC-1134), a Sentinel-class cutter based in Honolulu, are currently on-site, conducting a “safe and professional” overflight near the Russian ship. Authorities report that they are closely watching the vessel for intelligence-gathering activities.
According to international law, foreign military ships are allowed to transit in international waters outside of territorial seas, extending up to 12 nautical miles from shore. This incident is not isolated; the Kareliya has been spotted near U.S. waters before, including sightings in 2021 and 2023, where it was also believed to be gathering intelligence.
Earlier this year, British Defense Secretary John Healey indicated that similar Russian vessels were involved in “gathering intelligence and mapping the U.K.’s critical underwater infrastructure,” highlighting the broader implications of such military activity.
“The US Coast Guard routinely monitors maritime activity around the Hawaiian Islands and throughout the Pacific to ensure the safety and security of US waters,” stated Capt. Matthew Chong, chief of response for the Coast Guard Oceania District.
He continued, “Working in concert with partners and allies, our crews monitor and respond to foreign military vessel activity near our territorial waters to protect our maritime borders and defend our sovereign interests.”
The Russian Embassy in Washington has not yet issued a statement regarding the motivations or purpose of the Kareliya‘s presence near U.S. shores, leaving many questions unanswered about the implications of this surveillance.
This developing situation underscores the ongoing tension between the U.S. and Russia, particularly in maritime domains. As the Coast Guard and military personnel remain on high alert, the potential for increased naval activity in the Pacific is a pressing concern for U.S. national security.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation as it unfolds.
