Deputy FM: Russia ready to use all means to defend Arctic interests

Russia is prepared to use all available means to defend its interests and ensure security in the Arctic region if necessary, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in an interview with Russian media.

He warned that, under current conditions, it would be naive to rely on the goodwill of Russia’s “Arctic neighbours.”

“Therefore, our country is ready to defend its interests and protect its security in the Arctic region under any development scenario and to use for this all political, diplomatic, economic, and, if necessary, military means at our disposal,” Grushko said.

At the same time, he stressed that Russia’s military activities in the Arctic are “purely defensive” in nature. According to him, the ongoing modernisation of infrastructure in the region reflects Moscow’s increasing focus on developing its Arctic territories and does not pose a threat to other countries.

“[It] is aimed, among other things, at supporting economic activity and ensuring the livelihoods of the local population,” he added.

The remarks follow statements by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said on April 23 that the Arctic holds strategic importance for Russia’s economic development and sovereignty. He also pointed to the region’s growing role in the global economy and geopolitics, highlighting its potential for the development of efficient logistics routes.

By Tamilla Hasanova