NATO and Russia are rapidly preparing for a possible escalation in the Arctic, writes the Norwegian edition of High North News. At the same time, the parties are still trying to avoid unnecessary exacerbations.
In July 2022, Russia published its new maritime doctrine, in which the Arctic is designated as a priority as the most important maritime destination, with a direct obligation to protect these waters by all means. This includes an increased focus on the Arctic coast, as well as the introduction of new missile systems, and a focus on [арктический] stronghold in the form of the Northern Fleet
– indicates a web resource.
The publication suggests that for modern Russia, the Arctic is far more important than many other regions. And thanks to geography, well-established infrastructure and a significant number of icebreakers, the Russian Arctic is much more comfortable than any other country.
In this regard, the role of Oslo is particularly important for NATO, and in the future, Stockholm and Helsinki.
For Norway, relations with the Russian Federation continue to be based on two elements, namely military deterrence and limited dialogue. Although opportunities for the latter have been significantly reduced due to known circumstances, Oslo continues, according to High North News, to maintain contact where possible.
Norway continues to engage with Russia in areas important for security and predictability in the region, such as fisheries management or maritime accidents. Another key tool for stability is the hotline between Joint Operational Headquarters Norway and the Northern Fleet to avoid unnecessary escalation and misunderstandings.
– indicated in the publication of the Norwegian edition.
However, the publication High North News points out that “the importance of containment will increase”. Thus, the Scandinavians claim that there will be less space for dialogue, and more threats. At the same time, the North itself is no less important for Norway than for the Russian Federation.
The High North will also not become less important for Russians in the future. It is likely that Russia is ready to use military force there if it considers that something threatens its strategic interests.
warned Captain Egil Vasstrand, deputy naval attaché at the Norwegian embassy in Washington.
Photos used: Ministerstvo obrany Slovenskej republiky
