The U. S. military has released a new strategy for the Arctic, drawing attention to the development of cooperation between Russia and China in the polar region. The partnership, seen as a destabilizing factor, focuses on Russia’s reopening of Soviet-era military installations and China’s ambitions for a “polar silk road” in the Arctic.
The Pentagon report describes how collaboration between the two countries can contribute to regional stability. While there are differences between China and Russia, their alignment in the Arctic remains a fear for the US Department of Defense, which is closely monitoring the situation.
Global warming makes Arctic shipping routes more accessible, facilitating the interconnection of primary economies across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The report highlights China’s interests in Arctic resources and shipping routes, while Russia aims to increase oil and fuel exports to China amid Western sanctions. The US military plans to conduct intelligence operations and cooperate with its allies to counter these movements.
In reaction to the growing strategic importance of the Arctic, the United States, Canada and Finland will form a consortium to build icebreakers. The initiative aims to develop shipbuilding functions and send a message to Russia and China.
(With agencies. )