US says it recognizes need to alter Arctic strategy

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
16 Sep 2022 21:54

US Principal Director for the Arctic and Global Resilience at the Defense Department Greg Pollock says in a virtual panel discussion that the US monitors Russia and China's activities in the Arctic recognizing the need for NATO-Arctic seven cooperation and strategy change.

Paratroopers from the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment capture an opposing force soldier at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility in the Donnelly Training Area in Alaska, Feb. 11, 2021, as part of Exercise Arctic Warrior (U.S. Army/John Pennell)

US Principal Director for the Arctic and Global Resilience at the Defense Department Greg Pollock stated that the US recognizes a need to alter its Arctic strategy owing to developments in the global security situation such as Ukraine and climate change.

At a virtual discussion panel with the Center for New American Security, Pollock said that "We need to account for changes in the security environment, whether it's the increased urgency of the climate challenge or the implications of the conflict in Ukraine, for stability and security in the Arctic."

Pollock further stated that "We're watching both Russian and Chinese activities and intentions in the Arctic very closely. The Arctic remains peaceful and we want to do everything we can to keep it that way," adding, "I think there's obviously growing concern about security and stability in the Arctic."

In addition, the US is aware that the Arctic serves a significant role in both Russia's and China's extended strategic plans, according to Pollock.

As a result, NATO and the Arctic seven must be ready for a range of outcomes and to ensure they develop the right capabilities and interoperability in the region, including through large-scale exercises, Pollock concluded.

Arctic Seven

The Arctic Council is a high-level intergovernmental forum that deals with issues faced by the Arctic governments and the indigenous people within the region.

The Arctic Council is made up of 8 arctic countries including Russia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and the United States. Until this moment, Russia remains chair of the Arctic Council until May 2023, the other seven member states have suspended their participation in response to the war in Ukraine.