The Arctic is rapidly becoming a strategic theatre of geopolitical competition, military build-up, energy transformation, and global environmental change, warn MEPs in the resolution adopted by510 votes in favour and 75 against, with 80 abstentions.

Militarisation endangers regional stability

Condemning the growing militarisation of the Arctic, MEPs point to Russia’s extensive military restructuring, including the establishment of its “Maritime Collegium”. This, they say, in combination with China’s clear interest in the region, has escalated regional tensions and undermined regional stability. In response, the EU needs to strengthen cooperation with its NATO allies. EU-US cooperation in the area, MEPs add, is fundamental to contain Russia and China and ensure our common security.

Protection of essential underwater infrastructure and application of international law

In the light of recent incidents in the Baltic Sea attributed to Russia’s shadow fleet and Chinese…