Russia is increasing its presence in Arctic and may threaten Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, - DW. VIDEO
Russia is stepping up its military and infrastructure activities in the Arctic region, potentially posing a threat to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard.
This was reported by Deutsche Welle, according to Censor.NET.
Details
According to the publication, Moscow is consistently restoring and modernising military bases above the Arctic Circle, expanding the capabilities of the Northern Fleet, and increasing the number of exercises and patrols in the region. The Russian side pays particular attention to control over strategic sea routes and access to the Arctic's natural resources.
Such actions are causing concern in NATO countries, particularly Norway, which owns the Svalbard archipelago. Although the status of Svalbard is regulated by an international treaty of 1920 and provides for a demilitarised regime, experts warn that increased Russian activity near the archipelago could alter the security balance in the region.
In response, NATO is forced to strengthen its presence in the Arctic. The alliance is increasing the number of air and sea patrols, expanding the exchange of intelligence and intensifying cooperation between Arctic member states.
