First Russian Warship Since World War II Makes Round-Trip Detour Through Panama Canal

Destroyer Admiral Chabanenko will now turn around and go back through Canal to rejoin other Russian Naval task force vessels in Caribbean.

The destroyer Admiral Chabanenko became the first Russian or Soviet military ship to traverse the Panama Canal since World War II, reflecting Moscow's growing influence in the region.

Commanded by Capt. Anatoly Dolgov, the ship with a crew of 451 men arrived in Panama Friday after taking part on Dec. 1 in joint anti-terrorist exercises with the Venezuelan navy in the Caribbean.

The purpose of the ship's visit to the Central American country is to stock up on provisions, give sailors a rest, share experiences with Panama's aero-naval service and contribute to strengthening relations between the two countries, diplomatic sources said.

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