European leaders press EU for stronger Arctic role
Twelve countries have called for a more strategic European presence in the Arctic, as melting ice reshapes security and maritime interests.
Twelve European countries have urged the European Union to take a more strategic and proactive role in the Arctic, citing melting sea ice, emerging maritime routes and rising tensions involving Russia and the United States.
The call came in a joint statement issued after a summit in Rovaniemi, Finland. The leaders said Russia’s ambitions in the region, hostility towards Europe and alleged increase in hybrid activities strengthened the case for a more robust EU Arctic policy.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc needed icebreakers or other vessels capable of operating in difficult Arctic conditions. It remains unclear whether she was proposing joint EU acquisition or asking member states to increase their own capabilities.
No formal decisions were taken at the summit. The European Commission is expected to present a new Arctic strategy within weeks, which would guide the bloc’s approach over the coming years.
The Arctic is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, affecting the environment and local livelihoods. Melting ice is also lengthening the navigable season for routes including Russia’s Northern Sea Route, increasing competition over resources and maritime access.
The EU’s latest Arctic policy was adopted in 2021. The European Commission announced a €200 million package for Greenland on 7 September, after US President Donald Trump’s claims concerning control of the Danish territory intensified diplomatic and strategic attention.
