Kremlin says ‘manifestations of confrontation’ visible in updated US Arctic strategy

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Kremlin on Tuesday said that “manifestations of confrontation” are visible in Washington’s updated Arctic strategy.

“Yes, manifestations of confrontation are visible even in this document, which was published by the Pentagon,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in a press briefing.

Describing the Arctic as a “strategic area” for Moscow, Peskov said Russia takes a “responsible” position in the region.

He further said that Moscow contributes to ensuring that the Arctic does not become a territory of “discord and escalating tension.”

Peskov also said Russia’s interaction with China with regard to the Arctic contributes to an atmosphere of “stability and predictability” because "Russian-Chinese cooperation is never directed against any third countries or group of third countries.”

On Monday, the US Department of Defense released its Arctic Strategy for 2024, marking the first update to the body’s initial approach to the region since 2019.