For subscribers

Russia’s dilemma in the South China Sea

Moscow’s energy stakes and political standing in South-east Asia run into China’s assertion of its claims over the contested sea.

Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox

A China Coast Guard ship in the South China Sea in December 2023. Russia is an important stakeholder in the South China Sea dispute.

A China Coast Guard ship in the South China Sea in December 2023. Russia is an important stakeholder in the South China Sea dispute.

PHOTO: AFP

Follow topic:

It has not been a peaceful start to the new year in the South China Sea.

Joint US-Philippine patrols and Chinese military exercises have heightened tensions in the contested waters, already roiled by

a series of tense incidents between China and the Philippines

over disputed reefs in late 2023.

See more on