Intensifying Arctic Competition a ‘Springboard for Potential Conflicts,’ Says Putin

The Russian leader also said he supported Western cooperation as oil, gas, and metal deposits are being developed in the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends the International Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Russia, on March 27, 2025. Alexey Nikolskiy/Sputnik via Reuters

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on March 27 that intensifying geopolitical competition in the Arctic is a “springboard for potential conflicts.”

Speaking at a policy forum in the Russian Arctic port of Murmansk, Putin said that he is worried about NATO’s activities in the Arctic and will respond by strengthening its military capability in the polar region.