Russia asserts Arctic interests amid global power tussles
The Arctic remains a key area for Russia, emphasised Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, commenting on Donald Trump's statements about Greenland.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted on Thursday that the Arctic is within Russia's national interests. His statement was in response to remarks by the U.S. President-elect, Donald Trump, regarding Greenland.
Peskov emphasised that Moscow is carefully observing the "dramatic developments" and stated it strives for peace and stability in the region.
Greenland in the spotlight
On Tuesday, Donald Trump stated that the United States needs Greenland "for its national security." He also expressed doubts about Denmark's rights to this largest island in the world.
Greenland has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for 600 years and gained extensive autonomy from authorities in Copenhagen in 1979.
Greenland attracts international interest due to its strategic location in the Arctic. This area can be used to track missiles launched towards the USA, for instance, by Russia. In the northwestern part of the island is the American space base Pituffik, formerly known as Thule, which served the U.S. Air Force.
Russia and China threaten the Arctic
According to a Danish intelligence report published on Wednesday, Russia poses the greatest threat in the Arctic, in part due to a growing alliance with China. Both countries regularly conduct joint patrols in this region.
Climate change and melting glaciers increase Greenland's economic significance, due to its rich deposits of oil, gas, and rare earth metals.
