The Joint Staff announced before March 15 that a Russian naval weapons carrier passed through the Tsugaru Strait westward from the Pacific Ocean and entered the Sea of Japan on March 14. Ten Russian warships, including destroyers, also passed through the Tsugaru Strait on March 10-11. On March 14, six Russian vessels, including three submarines, were also spotted in the Soya Strait. The Ministry of Defense is conducting analysis of Russia’s intent.