News Brief
US Alarmed By A Russian Cargo Ship Docked In China: Here's Why
Russian President Vladimir Putin with Chinese President Xi Jinping
Satellite imagery has reportedly confirmed the presence of a US-sanctioned Russian cargo ship, the Angara, at a Chinese shipyard, sparking increased scrutiny over Beijing's role in supporting Moscow's military actions in Ukraine.
The Angara has been linked to the transport of North Korean munitions to Russia and is currently moored at the Zhoushan Xinya Shipyard in Zhejiang province, as per data from Britain's Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) and imagery provided by Planet Labs PBC.
The US State Department has expressed concern over the vessel's activities, which are believed to contravene United Nations Security Council resolutions.
"We call on all member states to fulfill their obligations under UNSCR 2397," stated a US State Department spokesperson, referring to a United Nations resolution restricting trade with North Korea and requiring UN states to de-register any vessels involved in illicit activities.
As US Secretary of State Antony Blinken prepares for upcoming talks in Beijing, the situation underscores the geopolitical complexities involving the US, China, and Russia, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Kurt Campbell, the US State Department's Deputy Secretary, had earlier this month said that Washington would not "sit by" if Beijing increased its backing for Moscow.
China's embassy in Washington said it was not aware of the details related to the Angara, but that China "always opposes unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction that have no basis in international law or mandate from the Security Council", Reuters reported.
China's foreign ministry also said it had no information about the matter.
The Angara, identified by its AIS transponder, has reportedly made multiple trips between North Korea and Russian ports, transporting what are believed to be military supplies.
The ship, sanctioned by the U.S. in May 2022, had conducted at least 11 deliveries between the North Korean port of Rajin and Russian ports from August 2023, according to RUSI.
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