Polar Ambitions of Great Powers and the Security Dilemma

Abstract

The dispute over Arctic resources is not something that is happening new; the talk about it began in the mid-2000s. However, the Arctic strategies of Russia and the West differed in their speed. The United States has been alarmed by significant delays in the development of the military and industrial infrastructure in the Arctic zone, therefore, to pursue Arctic ambitions, Greenland gains principal importance for the United States. Global warming having its impact on Greenland increases its strategic meaning compared to the „Cold War“ period. Perhaps the recent gaze of the United States towards Greenland and talks about bringing it under the US umbrella, or even President Trump's first executive order – resuming drilling in the Arctic region, which was suspended under the Biden administration, should be viewed in this context.

The article examines the Arctic ambitions of great powers and the competition for geopolitical dominance in the north of the Arctic Circle, which is increasing gradually becoming ever more relevant. The article also focused on China's interests in the Arctic and the "bear" versus "dragon" rivalry for influence in the region. Particular attention is paid to Russia's ambitions and demonstration of power, existing threats, and the balance of power in the region, as well as the North Atlantic Alliance's response to increased threats.