It would seem that the days of the Cold War are far behind us, the rivalry between the great powers has ceased, and cooperation and stability should seem to be the priority. However, at some point something went wrong, the crisis related to Russia’s alleged attack on Ukraine shifted the focus. And now the question arises whether all this confusion will not lead to a new Cold War, and in the Arctic.
Tensions are also heightened because of the existing weapons system between Russia and the U.S., as the Arctic is the best springboard for strikes against each other. This is why the Arctic is at the center of debates and discussions among international relations specialists, Modern Piplomacy writes.
China has also thrown a stone in the garden, claiming the status of a sub-Arctic state. The US sees this as a challenge to its authority as a global hegemon. This has turned the struggle in the Arctic from bipolar to tripolar.
Climate change has also catalyzed the deterioration of relations between the two supergiants. That said, the melting of the ice is seen by many as a hidden blessing as it opens up new opportunities for resource extraction in the Arctic.
Russia has amassed unprecedented military power in the Arctic and is testing the latest weapons in the region in an attempt to secure its northern coastline. During the Cold War, both powers developed surveillance systems to warn of attacks from the other side. However, much has changed since then.
Climate change is now at the center. The Arctic has attracted particular attention from the world’s strategists. The transformation in the region due to climate conditions has opened up new sea routes.
However, Russia, during its longstanding presence in the Arctic, has created a powerful military bridgehead there, as well as a springboard for economic activity. So no one can challenge its leading position in the Arctic.