Huntington/Bakdep – Federal States Intelligence Agencies reported “increased activity” at one of Kuehong’s major naval bases at Do Cua, in what seems to be a preparation of a military drill in the disputed waters of the Shaachrau Strait. Reports also revealed the presence of submarines and ships able to launch “short to long range missiles”. Missiles were also reported to be seen at the base.

“We have reason to believe that Kuehong is preparing for another exercise which will threaten the peace and stability of the region,” said the Federal States’ Commander in Chief of the Air Force.

Tensions in the region have been raised since the start of this year, with the flight of Kuehongese aircraft over the disputed islets of Shaachrau, also called the Xiuqiu Islets locally and Tucau by Kuehong. The islets are currently disputed and claimed by Kuehong, though no government has recognised its claim. The eastern half of the islets is de jure administered by the People’s Republic of Tucau but remains under Kue occupation. The other half of the islets is an International mandate territory established by Cinasia, with support of the AN peacekeeping forces and the Federal States.

Bakdep, however, has dismissed the reports and insisted that “it was a routine assignment”. It has said it will test of its short range missiles only within its territorial waters and will not send any of its military forces near the Tucau islets, claimed by Kuehong. It insists the exercise will be conducted under “international law”.

“Kuehong remained committed to keeping the peace and stability in the region and will not attack unless forced to do so. We urged the Federal States to restrain themselves from provoking the Kuehong government and disputing its claims to the Tucau islets,” said the Vice Chairman of the Kuehong National Stability and Security Congress (NSSC), the executive branch overseeing the national affairs of the country.