Arctic Watch

Facts About the Arctic

Year: 2025

Danish Prime Minister visits Greenland amid Trump’s bid for Arctic control

Tensions between the United States and Denmark have soared since Trump has said repeatedly he wanted to take control of the resource-rich Arctic island for security reasons.

Thawing Grounds, Rising Stakes: The Importance of Including Permafrost Emissions in Climate Policy

Most Arctic nations recognize permafrost thaw as a threat in their broader climate policies but stop short of formalizing these emissions in their NDCs and national targets.

US Federal Judge Clears Path for Drilling in Arctic Wildlife Refuge

The decision vacates the Department’s lease cancellation, clearing the way for oil and gas drilling in the Refuge’s coastal plain.

Arctic sea ice winter peak in 2025 is smallest in 47-year record

Arctic sea ice has recorded its smallest winter peak extent since satellite records began 47 years ago, new data reveals.

From Ice to Influence: Canada’s Arctic Interest

Canada’s Arctic region has emerged as a focal point of geopolitical interest, driven by its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and the profound impact of climate change.

Neorealism’s Regional Blindspot: The Arctic and South China Sea

The Arctic and the South China Sea present two vastly different theaters of geopolitical competition, yet involve the same principal actors – the United States and China.

Is the Arctic Prepared for a Large-Scale Cruise Ship Incident?

Cruise tourism is ever-growing in the Arctic, but is the region prepared for a large-scale cruise ship incident? The short answer is no.

Warming Arctic causes heat waves, floods in Europe

“Millions of people living on the coastline are in danger”, researchers warn after 2024 is declared the warmest year on record.

Low Fuel in Russia Sanctions

As global temperatures have risen, ice sheets have begun to melt in the Arctic, playing an important role in trade routes and military presence.