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As tensions escalate in the Arctic, Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a bold statement about his nation\u2019s growing military presence in the region.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Addressing the International Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Russia, Putin emphasized that his country will do what it takes to protect its sovereignty and national interests amidst rising geopolitical competition in the North.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201dWe are certainly concerned about NATO members describing the Far North as a region of possible conflicts,\u201d Putin said, referring to military drills and activities that have sparked fears of increased tensions between Russia and NATO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But the real kicker? Putin<\/a> also weighed in on one of the most talked-about issues in the Arctic: President Donald Trump\u2019s repeated calls for Greenland<\/a> to become part of the United States. While Trump\u2019s idea has been mocked by many, Putin insists that these plans have deep historical roots, dating back to the 19th century when the U.S. first explored the idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThose plans have deep historic roots,\u201d Putin remarked. \u201cIt\u2019s obvious that the United States will continue to systematically advance its geostrategic, military-political and economic interests in the Arctic.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Though Trump\u2019s push for Greenland has been met with resistance from both the Danish and Greenlandic governments, he maintains that it\u2019s about national security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe need Greenland for international safety and security. We need it. We have to have it,\u201d Trump insisted during a recent interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Putin\u2019s take on the matter? While Russia isn\u2019t directly concerned with Greenland\u2019s future, he warns that NATO\u2019s activities in the region could destabilize the Arctic.<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As tensions escalate in the Arctic, Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a bold statement about his nation\u2019s growing military presence in the region. Addressing the International Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Russia, Putin emphasized that his country will do what it takes to protect its sovereignty and national interests amidst rising geopolitical competition in the…<\/p>\n