Navy commander points to allied aircraft from Iceland and planned drones in Finland as evidence of espionage escalation aimed at Moscow.
MOSCOW — Russia’s top naval officer has accused NATO of dramatically increasing intelligence operations across the Arctic, signaling heightened military rivalry in the thawing polar region.
In statements reported by the TASS news agency on Tuesday, Russian Navy Chief Alexander Moiseev said surveillance and anti-submarine aircraft from the U.S., U.K., and Canada have notably raised their operational tempo from bases in Iceland. He also cited NATO’s intentions to station long-range surveillance drones in Finland as part of a broader pattern.
According to Moiseev, the alliance’s objective is clear: “to contain Russian activities in the Arctic.” The remarks underscore Moscow’s growing sensitivity to NATO’s presence along its northern flank, an area of increasing strategic and economic importance as ice retreats.
The public accusation reflects escalating tensions over Arctic security, where melting sea lanes and untapped resources have intensified competition among global powers.
