The Arctic, once considered a frozen wasteland of little strategic value, has emerged as a critical frontier in 21st-century geopolitics. As climate change accelerates ice melt, the region is becoming increasingly accessible and contested.
The Northwest Passage
The opening of the Northwest Passage could cut shipping times between Asia and Europe by up to 40%. This has sparked sovereignty disputes between Canada, the United States, and other Arctic nations.
Resource Wealth
The Arctic is estimated to hold 13% of the world undiscovered oil and 30% of its undiscovered natural gas. Russia, in particular, has been aggressively asserting its claims to these resources.
Comments (1)
The Arctic is indeed the next frontier. Russia military buildup there is concerning.