Kallas: EU to Counter China-Russia Arctic Influence, Secure Unimpeded Access to Northern Sea Route
Recent comments by European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, in an interview with the UK's The Times, indicate that the EU is preparing to challenge Russia and China’s growing influence in the Arctic region and seeks to ensure unrestricted access to the Northern Sea Route.
Kallas noted that summer voyages between Asia and Europe via the Arctic route could reduce travel distance by approximately one-third compared to traditional routes through the Red Sea and Mediterranean. The EU must act swiftly to close existing gaps in its strategic positioning within Arctic competition.
Reports suggest rising concerns among several European capitals over the expanding maritime capabilities of China and Russia, particularly in terms of icebreaker fleet size, where the two nations currently hold a clear advantage over Western counterparts. As the strategic and commercial value of Arctic shipping lanes increases, this frozen region is emerging as a new focal point in great power competition.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1879530602567688/
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