Russia and China Boost Arctic Presence Amidst Strategic Interests

• Russia and China deny plans to seize Greenland but are increasing their Arctic presence due to strategic importance.
• The Northern Sea Route (NSR) is being developed by Russia and China, facilitated by a warming climate, to boost trade and counterbalance Western sanctions.
• Russia aims to maximize shipping through the NSR, connecting Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans, and has invested €20 billion until 2035.
• China launched its Polar Silk Road project in 2018, aiming to become a "polar power" by 2030 with scientific research stations in Iceland and Norway.
• Russia is strengthening its Arctic military capabilities with new runways, S-400 systems, radar bases, and joint military exercises with China.

Why It Matters: Russia and China are expanding their strategic and economic influence in the Arctic, driven by trade and military interests.