Denmark warns of rising military tensions in Arctic due to Russia's aggressive actions
Illustrative photo: Denmark warns of military tensions in Arctic due to Russian actions (freepik.com)
Denmark, which is responsible for security in Greenland and the surrounding areas, has announced an increase in the risk of military conflict in the Arctic. This is due to threats from Russia, Reuters reports.
The annual report of the Danish Defense Intelligence Service states that security tensions in the region are increasing against the backdrop of Russia's aggressive and threatening behavior.
Russia is demonstrating a growing interest in the Arctic, reducing the level of international cooperation and making risky decisions that could lead to escalation of conflicts.
Analysts expect Moscow to react with restraint to China's growing role in the region. Meanwhile, Beijing, gaining access to the Arctic, seeks to strengthen its military presence and strengthen its position in the strategically important region.
The Arctic is of great importance for defense, in particular as an area for the deployment of nuclear submarines. Due to its unique geography, the region remains a key area for potential strikes between North America, Europe, and Russia.
In addition, experts noted that the route through the North Pole is the shortest intercontinental route for ballistic missiles in the event of a military conflict.
Greenland, a semi-autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark, plays a key role in ensuring Arctic security. It is home to the Pitufik Air Base, which is an important element of the US ballistic missile early warning system.
The UK has suspended cooperation with Russia on Arctic issues because of its full-scale war against Ukraine.
Threat from Russia in Arctic
Russia is actively building up its military presence in the Arctic, which is a cause for concern among NATO countries and the international community.
In particular, Moscow is expanding and updating its icebreaker fleet, commissioning new nuclear-powered vessels, and developing combat icebreakers equipped with modern weapons.
As early as 2022, scientists noted that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine had affected the security of the Arctic region. Find out how exactly in the RBC-Ukraine article.
Russia's growing militarization of the Arctic and its growing military presence pose threats to security and stability in the Arctic.
