Russian Federation surprised by Philippines' reaction to submarine passage in South China Sea

Moscow is surprised by the Philippines' reaction to the passage of a Russian submarine in the country's exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. This was stated by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova at a briefing on December 4.

On December 2, Philippine authorities expressed concern over the presence of the Ufa diesel-electric submarine in the waters of the South China Sea.

"Frankly speaking, this reaction surprised us," Zakharova said.

She explained that according to Article 58 of the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Ufa's presence in this maritime zone "is lawful and does not violate the norms of international maritime law."

According to the diplomat, such a reaction of Manila is the result of efforts of Western governments and media to "demonize" Russia.

Earlier, on April 22, it was reported that the United States and the Philippines began joint annual military exercises Balikatan 2024 amid growing tensions in the South China Sea. It is noted that Beijing's growing pressure has alarmed Manila, which claims disputed maritime territory in the South China Sea, and other states operating there, including the US, which has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the Philippines from armed aggression in the region.

Then, in early July, it was reported that a Chinese Coast Guard ship anchored in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. The Philippine side called it an attempt at intimidation.