Russia plans Arctic military buildup, eyes cooperation with West

Putin emphasized the strategic importance of the Arctic for Russia’s sovereignty and economy, saying: “We will reliably protect our national interests, support peace and stability in the Arctic, and ensure long-term development of the region.”

He said the country would modernize military infrastructure and expand port capacities in the north, particularly around Murmansk, which he called the “capital of the Russian Arctic.”

“The number of Russian military personnel in the Arctic will grow,” Putin said, adding that Russia will develop new shipyards and acquire both domestic and foreign-built vessels to support Arctic trade routes.

Despite Western sanctions and tensions, he expressed his readiness for cooperation.

“We are open to joint work not only with Arctic nations but with all who share responsibility for a stable future of the planet,” he said.

He also highlighted the expansion of the Northern Sea Route, projecting cargo volumes to reach up to 100 million tons by 2030.

Russia currently has the world’s largest icebreaker fleet, and new vessels, including the 120-megawatt “Rossiya,” are under construction.

Putin also warned of NATO activities in the Arctic, particularly involving new members Finland and Sweden, but reiterated that “Russia has never threatened anyone in the Arctic.”

The International Arctic Forum, held this year in Murmansk, comes amid rising geopolitical competition and a freeze in Arctic Council cooperation due to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Despite this, Russia continues to invest in the Transpolar Sea Route and hopes to attract international investors to infrastructure, logistics and tourism projects in the region.