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Sources: Russian subs patrolling off US East Coast
(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-08-05 09:00

WASHINGTON: Defense officials say two nuclear-powered Russian attack submarines have been patrolling in international waters off the East Coast for several days.

The officials tell The Associated Press that while they haven't seen such unusual activity since the Cold War, the military is not overly concerned. They say the Russians have a right to conduct naval exercises and are operating according to international law.

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US Northern Command would not comment on any details of the Russian submarines movement. But in a prepared statement, Northern Command spokesman Michael Kucharek acknowledged the patrols and said that the US has been monitoring the two submarines.

Two senior defense officials provided details on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence.