Russian submarine reroutes to Algeria amid Syrian port closure
The Russian submarine B-265 Krasnodar, unable to access the port in Syria, has docked in Algiers. It is accompanied by the tugboat Evgeny Churov. This change is due to the evolving political situation in Syria.
What you should know:
- The Russian submarine B-265 Krasnodar has docked in the port of Algiers.
- It is accompanied by the ocean-going tugboat Evgeny Churov from the Baltic Fleet.
- The change of port is due to denied access to the Syrian port of Tartus.
The Russian submarine B-265 Krasnodar, part of the Black Sea Fleet, sought refuge in the port of Algiers. Accompanied by the ocean-going tugboat Evgeny Churov, from the Baltic Fleet, both vessels will stay in the Algerian port for several days to refuel and conduct necessary maintenance.
Previously, Russian ships utilized the port of Tartus in Syria. However, after the Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad was overthrown last December, Syria's new authorities in Damascus denied Russian access to this port. The absence of a permanent support base in the Mediterranean Sea limits the operational capabilities of Russian vessels in the area.
Russian ships navigating waters near NATO's southern flank are constantly monitored by American and Italian aircraft, drones, and ships. The current Russian fleet in the Mediterranean includes a submarine, a frigate, a support tanker, a tugboat, and the spy ship Viktor Leonov.
Armament of Russian vessels
The Ukrainian navy reports that two Russian ships are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles. This increases the potential threat to the region, which is closely monitored by NATO forces.
The presence of Russian ships in the Mediterranean, despite restrictions, demonstrates Russia's determination to maintain influence in the region. This situation may escalate tensions with NATO countries, who are closely observing the movements of the Russian fleet.
