Putin explores potential Arctic cooperation with the United States

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum in Moscow that Russia is analyzing the possibility of cooperation with United States partners in the Arctic region. Putin noted that while European and Chinese partners previously worked at Russian gas fields, the Kremlin is now examining potential joint work with American entities.

These remarks follow reports that Putin discussed an Alaska-based energy project with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The project, known as Polar LNG, involves an American startup aiming to extract and liquefy natural gas from Alaska’s North Slope using technology from the Russian company Novatek. While Novatek faces partial US sanctions, the company has expressed interest in acquiring a minority stake in the venture.

Putin emphasized that Russia is working to strengthen its technological sovereignty in the gas industry, particularly regarding LNG technologies used in harsh Arctic environments. He stated that establishing close partnerships is essential for the development of gas extraction, transport infrastructure, and specialist training.