The Russian President has asserted his commitment to safeguarding Russia’s sovereignty amid growing tensions in the Arctic.
During the International Arctic Forum held on Thursday, March 27, Vladimir Putin emphasized his dedication to defending Russia’s interests.
These interests appear to encompass the geopolitical activities in the Arctic region, extending beyond its European neighbors.
In his speech, Putin accused NATO member countries of viewing the Arctic as a potential site for conflict, although he did not specify any particular nations.
He further claimed that NATO members have been conducting numerous military exercises in the Arctic, while asserting that Russia has “never threatened anyone in the Arctic,” yet remains vigilant about the recent developments.
Putin issued a warning to these countries, indicating that there would be a response to NATO members’ actions.
He stated: “[The] numbers of military servicemen in the Arctic will be rising.
“We are developing our response capabilities by upgrading our military infrastructure.
“We will not allow an encroachment of the sovereignty of our country… we will protect our national interests.”
Interestingly, he also highlighted Donald Trump and his ongoing comments about Greenland potentially becoming part of the United States.
Although Trump has faced criticism for these remarks, Putin argued that they should not be dismissed.
The Russian President noted that the US had considered plans to annex Greenland as far back as the 1860s, but these plans were ultimately dropped after Congress rejected them.
Putin remarked: “It would be a grave mistake to think that this is just some eccentric talk of the new American administration, nothing of the kind.
“Those plans have deep historic roots and it is obvious that the US will continue to promote their geopolitical, military and economic interests in the Arctic.
“As for Greenland, I think that this is an issue that concerns two states and has nothing to do with us.
“However, we are concerned by the fact that the NATO countries increasingly identify the far north as a foothold for possible conflicts.”
While Greenland operates as an autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark, Trump has argued that US ownership is necessary for “national security and even international security.”
Despite assertions from both the Danish government and the Greenlandic government that Greenland is not for sale, Trump maintains confidence in his position.
Speaking alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump expressed: “I think it’ll happen. A boat landed there 200 years ago or something.
“And they say they have rights to it. I don’t know if that’s true. I don’t think it is, actually.”