Sunday, March 2, 2014

Suspicious Russian Ships

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin released that he plans to globally expand Russia's military presence. A day after, Russia docked a Russian surveillance ship on Havana, which is only 228 miles from Miami. A report revealed that the ship had high tech. electronic surveillance gear, along with missiles and anti-aircraft guns. In addition, although Cuba and Russia were very close economic and military allies, the tie has severely loosened after the Cold War. There has been no report on the reason why the ship is docked there, and there has been suspicion over why Russia has mysteriously placed a surveillance ship right after Putin's announcement. However, Russian reporters have defended itself by stating that the intended mission of the ship has not been announced because it is a surveillance ship.
The Pentagon has not yet replied to Russia's suspicious actions near our borders. In addition, there has been a report that two anti-submarine warships were found on the coast of Ukraine. In fact, the placement of Russian ships is a direct violation of a agreement on Moscow's lease of a naval base.

Because this is an issue of foreign policy, it should be the executive and legislative branch's responsibility to act upon these possible threats. However, I believe it is odd that the Pentagon has not said anything about the issue. This can very possibly end up being a foreign threat to our country. In addition, whenever "surveillance" is concerned, civil rights is always an issue. Although (hopefully) the Russian surveillance on American civilians is not as intrusive as the American surveillance system, it is a greater civil rights issue if foreign countries can look into the lives of American people. However, obviously, if the Russian surveillance ship is only checking on the US military, there is no civil rights issue. Also, because the Media portrays the Russian Ships as a dangerous presence 228 feet away from Miami, the people will also perceive Russia as a possible threat. However, the ship can definitely only be a defensive measure by Russia.

After Russia's assertive announcement to expand its military presence in the world, should the US take action against Russia's suspicious actions? Should the Russian ship be perceived as a potential threat, or a minor defensive move by the Russian government?

TheEpochTimes
USAToday
HuffingtonPost


1 comment:

Branyan said...

Interesting development! Certainly, it seems that Putin and Russia have been seeking a large global presence over the past few years with its bid for the Olympics and increased military activity in recent weeks. This is likely more of a demonstration of power than a direct, intentional threat to the security of other nations.

Although borderline provocative, Russia understands there is no win if military conflict arises. Perhaps Russia's idea of a backlash against feelings of encroachment from Western powers and influences.