Bloomberg: Russia's next standoff with West lies in resource-rich Arctic

The Arctic, which has long remained aloof from geopolitics, could become an arena for a clash of strategic interests between the West and Russia. 

According to Bloomberg, the low-conflict status quo in the Arctic "is under threat" and this will have an impact on scientific cooperation in the region "which has flourished since the end of the Cold War".

Struggles over Arctic resources - possibly millions of barrels of oil and rich mineral deposits - are intensifying.

It notes that "the governance of the Arctic has suddenly come into question as a result of Russia's isolation". Meetings of the Arctic Council have been suspended since last year. "No one knows exactly what will happen after May 11, when Russia is to hand over the 'governing chair' to Norway," the article said.

Russia's Arctic ambassador to Denmark, Thomas Winkler, notes that Russia remains a member of the council in any case and will therefore "in principle" participate in any decisions or actions.