Military and political tensions in the Arctic are rising as NATO expands its presence in the region and strengthens offensive capabilities near Russia’s northern borders, Vladislav Maslennikov, director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department of European Problems, said at the IV Arctic — Regions Forum.

Western countries have increasingly begun to view the Arctic through the lens of confrontation in recent years, placing greater emphasis on military means to protect their interests, Maslennikov said. According to him, NATO is pursuing the active militarization of the High North under the pretext of countering what he described as «mythical threats from the East.»

This approach is putting growing pressure on a region that for decades remained a space for peaceful and constructive interaction. Maslennikov warned that the military buildup is increasing tensions and creating a greater risk of unintended escalation.

He also pointed to regular large-scale military exercises in the Arctic as another element of the alliance’s policy. Such drills include offensive scenarios and involve NATO members that are not Arctic states, he said.

Russia continues to regard reducing the potential for conflict, observing international law and preserving international cooperation as its main priorities in the Arctic, Maslennikov stressed.

At the same time, Moscow is taking the measures it considers necessary to protect national security and respond to emerging challenges and threats, whose number continues to grow, according to the diplomat.