Referring to the US president Donald Trump's stated intention to take over Greenland, Putin said it had nothing to do with Russia, but it is clear that the US will proceed to advance its interests in the Arctic. The American plans for Greenland are serious and have deep historical roots," he noted.
Putin, at the Arctic Forum in Murmansk, stated that Russia is afraid that "NATO countries are increasingly appointing the function of a trampoline for possible conflicts", while Russia is monitoring the situation and preparing an appropriate response.
— It is clear that the function and importance of the Arctic for both Russia and the planet is growing. But unfortunately, geopolitical competition, the fight for positions in this region is besides increasing,” he added.
Further string of article under video material
Putin calls for expansion of Russia's northern ports
Putin wants to increase trade across the Arctic's northern route, as Russia moves trade towards Asia and distant from Europe due to Western sanctions," noted Reuters.
Putin said abroad partners willing to cooperate with Russia in the region will be guaranteed a good return on investment.
Putin called for the expansion of Russia's northern ports and the construction of a commercial fleet in the Arctic, supported by fresh generation icebreakers, including those with atomic propulsion. However, as Russia's current capabilities are insufficient, this will require the acquisition of ships and cooperation with abroad shipyards.
W The Arctic has fossil fuels and mineral resources under both the mainland and the seabed. With global warming, it can be easier to scope them,” the agency noted. The Arctic is an area of military competition, and as analysts say, Russia reopening bases from russian times and modernizing its navy, strengthened its presence in this area much faster than the West.
