US Annexation of Greenland: Potential Impact on Arkhangelsk Region

The whole world is discussing the plans of US President Donald Trump to annex Greenland. It might seem that the topic is far from the residents of Arkhangelsk region, but in reality, the consequences could affect the Arctic part of the region, and therefore, the residents of Pomorye. Economist Alexander Vorotnikov explained how the possible annexation of Greenland to the USA could affect Arkhangelsk region.

Alexander Vorotnikov is an associate professor in the Department of Public Administration and Public Policy at the Institute of Social Sciences of RANEPA (Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration), coordinator of the Expert Council of the Expert Center POORA (Project Office for Arctic Development).

Vorotnikov is sure: such a scenario has both positive and negative consequences for Arkhangelsk region.

«Problems in the case of Greenland»s annexation to the States will certainly arise. The island is in close proximity to the Northern Sea Route (NSR), which means not very far from Arkhangelsk region,« explains Vorotnikov. »The Arctic property of the region is connected to the NSR. If hypothetically Greenland is annexed to the USA, understanding Trump«s rhetoric, his, let»s say, not always adequate actions, this will cause certain problems. Including those that may require high expenses to strengthen defense capability specifically in the Arctic zone.«

According to Alexander Vorotnikov, Arkhangelsk region in case of threats will participate in ensuring the security of navigation along the NSR and the operation of the port, as well as protection from possible aggressive actions. Threats can also be economic.

There are many Arctic projects being implemented in Arkhangelsk region, including with the participation of foreign investors. The most important one at the moment is the development of the seaport and its deep-water part. China is participating in the project, with which the region actively cooperates.

Another role of the region in the Arctic, which, according to Vorotnikov, will be sharply enhanced, is related to the construction and repair of ships. Arkhangelsk region is a powerful shipbuilding region.

«Projects that are currently being implemented in Arkhangelsk region need to be developed with an understanding of which country owns Greenland,» the economist believes.

According to Vorotnikov, if Greenland is annexed to the USA, besides the obvious military-political confrontation, competition in the Arctic will increase.

«This is a stage of development: more active work will begin, the use of new competencies to compete for resources and opportunities,» the economist notes the positive consequences.

In addition, in a favorable scenario, cooperation between Russia and the USA could lead to joint economic and scientific projects, including with specialists in Arkhangelsk region. But at the same time, according to Vorotnikov, active US activity in Greenland could negatively affect the ecology of the Arctic.