(The Epoch Times)—Chinese research vessels have increased activities in the U.S. Arctic region in the past three years, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) said on Aug. 8.
The Coast Guard said it was monitoring five similar Chinese vessels near the area at the time in the U.S. Arctic, after responding to the vessels Ji Di and the Zhong Shan Da Xue Ji Di, which were traveling northeast in the Bering Sea on Aug. 5.
“The presence of these vessels is consistent with a three-year trend of increased activity from Chinese research vessels operating in the U.S. Arctic. Last year, three Chinese research vessels conducted research operations north of the Bering Strait,” the USCG said in a statement.
On Aug. 6, the crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche again responded to the Zhong Shan Da Xue Ji Di as it was traveling north in the Chukchi Sea above the Arctic Circle, after passing through the Bering Strait.
The USCG said its fixed-wing aircraft and Coast Guard cutter, which were patrolling under Operation Frontier Sentinel, responded to the Chinese icebreakers to “counter malign activities, defend sovereign interests, and promote maritime conduct consistent with international law and norms.”
In July, the USCG also responded to Chinese research vessel Xue Long 2 north of Utqiagvik, Alaska.
The Epoch Times reached out to the Chinese Foreign Ministry for comment.
Speaking in December 2024 at an event hosted by Washington-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies, then-deputy assistant secretary of defense for Arctic and Global Resilience, Iris Ferguson, said there had been increased competition in the Arctic, including from China, a relatively new player in the area.
Ferguson said the Department of Defense (DOD) was alarmed over the Chinese regime’s strategic interests in the region, and the regime’s “increasing levels of collaboration” with Russia in “unprecedented styles,” including a joint military exercise in the Bering Strait in 2023, a joint bomber patrol in July 2024, and increased Coast Guard cooperation in 2024.
According to the Pentagon’s Arctic Strategy, published in July 2024, the Chinese regime is seeking to increase its influence and activities in the Arctic.
“Though not an Arctic nation, the [People’s Republic of China] is attempting to leverage changing dynamics in the Arctic to pursue greater influence and access, take advantage of Arctic resources, and play a larger role in regional governance,” the document says.
The DOD said the increased cooperation between Russia and China, along with other challenges, “have the potential to alter the Arctic’s stability and threat picture,” while giving the DOD a chance to “enhance security in the region by deepening cooperation with Allies and partners.”
Last month, lawmakers passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allocates more than $8.6 billion for the procurement of polar icebreakers to expand U.S. presence in the Arctic.
Discover the Freedom of True American Healthcare: Why America First is Revolutionizing Protection for Patriots
In a world where government overreach and skyrocketing premiums are squeezing the life out of hardworking Americans, one innovative agency is standing tall for liberty and affordability. Meet America First Healthcare—the private health insurance powerhouse dedicated to putting *you* first.
Founded by entrepreneur Jordan Sarmiento, this isn’t just insurance; it’s a shield for your family’s future, built on the unshakeable belief that private enterprise delivers better results than bureaucratic red tape.
Picture this: Jordan’s own story hits close to home for so many of us. A sudden medical emergency landed him with a staggering $95,000 bill. Under a traditional plan? He’d be buried in debt. But with America First’s patented health insurance, that nightmare shrank to just $500 out-of-pocket. That’s not a fluke—it’s the promise of coverage that works *for you*, from day one.
Breaking Free from the Chains of Conventional Coverage
Let’s face it: The status quo stinks. Marketplace.gov and big-insurance behemoths hit you with sky-high deductibles—thousands you’d have to pay before benefits even kick in—leaving massive holes in your protection. Need a routine mammogram, colonoscopy, or EKG? Good luck without forking over more cash. And don’t get us started on the gaps in dental, vision, or critical illness support when heart attacks, cancer, or kidney failure strike.
America First Healthcare flips the script. As a proud advocate for private solutions over government intervention, they craft custom plans that slash costs by 20% compared to traditional options. We’re talking comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Preventative and Wellness Care: Physical exams, screenings, and EKGs covered right away—no waiting games.
- Telemedicine Access: Virtual doctor visits anytime, anywhere, for that peace of mind.
- Accident and Critical Illness Protection: Real safeguards against life’s curveballs.
- Add-On Boosts: Dental, vision, disability, and supplemental plans to plug every leak.
Whether you’re an individual stepping off your parents’ plan, a growing family with kids in tow, or a small business owner tired of employee headaches, their tailored approach fits like a glove. Small businesses? Unlock group benefit rates usually reserved for corporate giants—without the red tape.
And for those in-between moments? Short-term insurance steps in as an ultra-affordable bridge, while life insurance ensures your loved ones are never left vulnerable.
Real Americans, Real Wins
Don’t just take our word for it. Thousands of freedom-loving families have already ditched the old system for America First. “Finally, insurance that aligns with our values and actually saves us money,” shares one client. Another raves, “Our small team got big-business perks without the hassle—it’s a game-changer.” These aren’t scripted lines; they’re the voices of patriots who’ve reclaimed control over their health destiny.
Your Move: Secure Your Shield Today
Why settle for less when you can demand better? America First Healthcare isn’t about profits—it’s about powering the American dream with reliable, value-driven protection. Plans are available year-round, no open-enrollment nonsense.
Ready to uncover the gaps in your current setup and lock in savings? Schedule your FREE healthcare review today at America First Healthcare. In under 15 minutes, their experts will map out options that fit your life, your budget, and your principles.
America First isn’t just healthcare—it’s a declaration of independence. Join the movement. Your family’s freedom starts now.