Why the Arctic matters to the United States

(Julia Nesheiwat – Atlantic Council) The Arctic is emerging as a central arena of great-power competition, driven by melting sea ice, expanding access to energy and minerals, and intensifying activity by Russia and China. Vast reserves of energy and critical minerals—especially in Greenland—are fueling strategic competition, with Moscow prioritizing Arctic development and Beijing investing heavily through joint ventures. Increasingly navigable shipping corridors could disrupt global trade by shortening routes, but they raise disputes over sovereignty, militarization, and freedom of navigation. – Why the Arctic matters to the United States – Atlantic Council