(CNN) -- Most of the 74 people aboard a Russian
research ship stuck in the frozen Antarctic may be airlifted out, Russia
said on Monday.
A Chinese helicopter
plans to evacuate 52 passengers and four crew members aboard the MV
Akademik Shokalskiy, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
An Australian icebreaker
on Monday suspended efforts to reach the expedition because of bad
weather. The Aurora Australis got within 10 nautical miles, but then
turned back.
The Akademik Shokalskiy
has not moved since issuing a distress signal on Christmas, the
Australian Maritime Safety Authority said.
"The area where the MV
Akademik Shokalskiy is beset by ice is currently experiencing winds of
up to 30 knots and snow showers," the maritime authority said Monday.
"These weather conditions
have resulted in poor visibility and made it difficult and unsafe for
the Aurora Australis to continue. ... Further attempts may be made by
the vessel in due course to undertake the rescue once weather conditions
improve," the maritime authority said.
The nearby Chinese icebreaker Xue Long, or Snow Dragon, carries a helicopter.
The stranded vessel is in
regular contact with Australian authorities and those aboard are
reported to be in good spirits and have supplies for several weeks.
A U.S. Coast Guard ship,
the Polar Star, is in the general area but would likely take two weeks
to reach the Akademik Shokalskiy.
Coast Guard spokesman Lt. Paul Rhynard said the Polar Star has not been asked to help.
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