Russia Claims Much of Arctic

Russia is launching an underwater expedition to the North Pole in order to back up its claim to a massive section of the Arctic, which may contain vast energy reserves. “The Arctic is ours and we should demonstrate our presence,” said a Russian parliamentarian and explorer who will participate in the flag-planting expedition.

BBC:

The team aboard the mini-submarine Mir is expected to carry out scientific experiments and measurements on the sea bed.

Reports say it will also leave behind a Russian flag and a capsule with a message for future generations.

“The Arctic is ours and we should demonstrate our presence,” Mr Chilingarov told Russian TV.

His colleague and fellow parliamentarian Vladimir Gruzdev was quoted as saying: “We must remind the whole world that Russia is a great polar and scientific power.”

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