A viewer, Paul, proposes hospital and construction ships as a response to a Kirov's visit. A smaller warship could look unimpressive, while a carrier group could make the Soviet ship appear to require an excessive response. Humanitarian assistance offers a different diplomatic purpose. Its reception still depends on the government concerned: aid welcomed after a disaster or by a small island state could look patronizing in a country with substantial hospitals of its own.
Notable Point · 4:13:02-4:15:39
Hospital ships could answer Soviet prestige only where aid was welcome
A hospital-ship visit could offer useful assistance after a Soviet warship visit, but an unwanted offer could embarrass the receiving government.