Russia to boost military in the Artic, "may cause terratorial disputes"

[kaya'08]

Russia has announced plans to set up a military force to protect its interests in the Arctic.

In a document published on its national security council's website, Moscow says it expects the Arctic to become its main resource base by 2020.

While the strategy is thought to have been approved in September, it has only now been made public.

Moscow's ambitions are likely to cause concern among other countries with claims to the Arctic.

'Military security'

The document foresees the Arctic becoming Russia's main source of oil and gas within the next decade.

In order to protect its assets, Moscow says one of its main goals will be the establishment of troops "capable of ensuring military security" in the region.

With climate change opening up the possibility of making drilling viable in previously inaccessible areas, the Arctic has gained in strategic importance for Russia, says the BBC's James Rodgers in Moscow.

Russian flag planted on Arctic seabed, 3 Aug 07
Russia's moment of Arctic triumph in 2007 was captured on film

However, Russia's arctic ambitions have already put those with competing claims on the defensive.

BBC NEWS | Europe | Russian 'Arctic military' plan

 

[Stryker]

The whole world smells the current American weakness.

 

[Goobieman]

The whole world smells the current American weakness.

In many places, it is welcome.

 

[ludahai]

China beefing up for domination of the South China Sea, Taiwan and to threaten Japan.

Russia beefing up to retake its Near Abroad and the Arctic.

Is Europe really sure that the decline of the USA is a good idea?

 

[kaya'08]

Is Europe really sure that the decline of the USA is a good idea?

Nope. Not at all. If the US did collapse then Europe would be up for grabs, and everyone will want a piece at the cost of many lives.

 

[ludahai]

Nope. Not at all. If the US did collapse then Europe would be up for grabs, and everyone will want a piece at the cost of many lives.

Nice to see that at least ONE European sees that.

 

[kaya'08]

Nice to see that at least ONE European sees that.

All rational Europeans do. Unfortunately, theres very few left.
I think its the decline of the US that the idea of a total European integration stretching from Iceland to Turkey and Eastern bloc states to form a Greater European Superpower to fend ourselves from Russia etc when and if the US gets to the stage where it can no longer gaurentee European protection has become more appealing in the eyes of your average European. Not so much in my eyes. But if the US does collapse, it certainly would make sense. Hopefully, and i doubt, America will ever get to that stage.

Secondly i dont really think Europe would induldge themselves in happiness were the American economy to collapse, but quiet the opposite, though Russia certainly would be happy. If Greater Europe was to be formed today, total integration of the all member states and one unified army to create a superpower, the case might be different regarding how Europeans feel towards the decline of the US economy. Because this is not the case, and much of Europe remains relatively inefficient against a Russian or Chinese army, European leaders realizes that there enemies are put at bay because of the Americans. I dont think its a very accurate conclusion to say we want to see the fall of America, but thats not to say your completely off target.