Russia and the USА in the Arctic: from Competition to Confrontation

The rivalry of great powers for hegemony and influence that has unfolded in the modern multipolar world is increasingly evident in the Arctic, a strategically important region of the world that is exceptionally rich in natural resources. Тhe attractiveness of the Arctic and the competition of the great powers around it are enhanced by the objective changes taking place in the Far North, which are taking place in four important areas – in the field of technology, economy, climate and law, contributing to the economic development of the region. The clash of interests here, primarily between the United States and Russia, leads to an increase in military and political tension, turning the once abandoned peripheral region of the Far North into a zone of increased information, political and, more importantly, military activity of the super-powers. The article analyzes the increased popularity of the Arctic direction in the foreign policy of the United States, Russia and China, which is associated with the warming of the climate, the acceleration of the melting of glaciers in the Arctic, the prospect of opening new sea routes and the activation of the activities of the Arctic and other states in the region, primarily China. Against the background of recent international events related to the Arctic, the Arctic direction of the foreign policy of Washington, Moscow and Beijing is considered. The emphasis is on its military-political component, given that the growing political tension in the Arctic can lead to a new generation of armed conflicts, exacerbate the situation not only in the Northern region, but also in the international arena as a whole. The situation is aggravated by the lack of recognized norms of international law in the Arctic regarding the ownership of specific vast sectors of the Arctic Ocean and islands in its waters by the Arctic States. The main problem remains the definition of maritime borders and the rights to carry out economic activities here. Political tension is rising.