(NewsWorthy.news.com) – As Russia and China boost their joint military efforts in the Arctic, the two countries resisted a warning about their work that was issued by the United States.
On Monday July 22, the collaborating nations were criticized by an American government official. Kathleen Hicks, the Deputy Secretary of Defense, told the media that Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) are doing more work “commercially” in the Arctic region. She added that China has become “a major funder” of “energy exploitation” conducted by Russia.
Hicks also noted that the countries are engaged in “growing military cooperation” by enacting “joint exercises” near Alaska. She added that climate change is “enabling all of this” to occur, due to “rapidly” rising temperatures and thinning ice in the Arctic. Her comments were made as her department released the 2024 Arctic strategy.
The 18-page document released by the Pentagon suggests that Russia is engaged in “destabilizing” efforts that will impact America, Canada, and other Western allies. Collaborating naval activities between Russia and China were also detailed in the report.
Some of the disruption caused by the two countries is suspected Russian-initiated interference with global positioning system (GPS) satellites. The report noted that the country’s “Arctic capabilities” hold the “potential” to put the United States and its allies “at risk.” The report also identified “threats” of a “nuclear, conventional, and special operations” nature as part of the ongoing issue, as well as “unprofessional” military exercises which are “inconsistent with international law.”
Over the past few years, Russia has increased its military activity in the region. The country has done this primarily by setting up modernized bases and airfields that were previously abandoned during the time of the Soviet reign. China, meanwhile, has financially supported its efforts related to polar research and exploration.
The changing climate has also opened the door for countries to obtain gas, minerals, and oil from the region. Territorial disputes have complicated these efforts as nations seek out effective shipping routes. Western allies—particularly the United States and Canada—are increasingly impacted by the Arctic activity. Canada recently revealed plans to increase its defense presence on its over 100,000 miles of coastline in the region.
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