EU Sets Its Sights on the Arctic Amid Rising Tensions

The European Union is preparing to update its Arctic strategy as geopolitical competition and security concerns grow across the High North. Brussels is expected to address defence, connectivity, technology and the protection of critical infrastructure, including undersea cables. The region’s strategic importance has increased amid Russia’s war against Ukraine and concerns about hybrid threats. The EU also seeks closer cooperation with Arctic partners, including Norway, Iceland and Canada. Officials say the updated approach must balance security priorities with sustainable development, research and the rights of Indigenous peoples.