Dealing with Russia in the Arctic: Between Exceptionalism and Militarization

Abstract

While Russia’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council emphasizes peaceful cooperation, the country’s military buildup in the region continues. Due to climate change and great-power rivalry, the Arctic is no longer a remote and exceptional place, but part of a complex security environment. To deal with Russia in the Arctic, NATO allies need a double-sided strategy combining credible deterrence with dialogue. Regional actors like Norway are well placed to shape this approach, but the EU, including Germany, should do more.