U.S. Coast Guard Intensifies Monitoring of Chinese Research Vessels in Arctic Waters
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has resumed its monitoring activities as Chinese research vessels, including the Xue Long and Xue Long 2, have been observed entering the Bering Sea and transiting through U.S. and international waters. This marks the first instance in 2026 of such activity, following a significant increase in Chinese presence in the region last year. The Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources has launched a large expedition to the Arctic, involving four research vessels, to advance studies on global climate change impacts in the Arctic Ocean. While international law permits foreign vessels to operate within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and over the extended continental shelf, the USCG is ensuring compliance with international regulations, particularly regarding marine scientific research, which requires U.S. permission and data sharing.