The Russian President made it clear that he would take whatever actions he deemed necessary to safeguard his nation’s sovereignty as tensions escalate in the Arctic.
Speaking at the International Arctic Forum on Thursday (March 27), Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Russia’s interests.
These interests appear to extend beyond its European neighbors, encompassing the broader geopolitical developments in the Arctic region.
During his address, Putin accused NATO member states of viewing the Arctic as a “foothold for possible conflicts,” though he did not name specific countries.
He claimed that NATO members have been conducting numerous military exercises in the region but insisted that Russia has “never threatened anyone in the Arctic.” However, he cautioned, “We are watching recent developments very closely.”
Putin then issued a warning, stating that Russia would respond to NATO’s actions in the Arctic.
Vladimir Putin said Russia would be stepping up its presence in the Arctic
He stated: “[The] number of military personnel in the Arctic will increase.
“We are enhancing our response capabilities by upgrading our military infrastructure.
“We will not permit any encroachment on our country’s sovereignty… we will defend our national interests.”
Notably, he also referenced Donald Trump and his repeated remarks about Greenland potentially becoming part of the United States.
While Trump has faced criticism for these comments, Putin insisted that they should be taken seriously.
The Russian leader noted that the idea of annexing Greenland was first proposed by the U.S. in the 1860s but was ultimately dismissed after being rejected by Congress.
Putin remarked, “It would be a serious mistake to believe this is merely the eccentric talk of the new American administration—nothing of the sort.”
“These plans have deep historical roots, and it is clear that the U.S. will continue to pursue its geopolitical, military, and economic interests in the Arctic.
“As for Greenland, I believe this is a matter for two countries and does not concern us.”
Donald Trump has repeatedly called for Greenland to become a part of the US
Although Greenland functions as an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, Trump has argued that the U.S. needs ownership for “national security and even international security.”
Despite both the Danish and Greenlandic governments asserting that Greenland is not for sale, Trump remains confident that he will succeed.
Speaking to reporters alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, he said: “I think it’ll happen. A boat landed there 200 years ago or something.”
“And they say they have rights to it. I don’t know if that’s true. I don’t think it is, actually.”
