Polar Geopolitics - Arctic and Antarctic analysis Emerging trends in American engagement in the Arctic and Antarctic under Trump 2.0
Sep 10, 2025
Evan Bloom, a former senior diplomat with over two decades shaping U.S. polar policies, dives into emerging trends in American engagement in the Arctic and Antarctic. He discusses the alarming funding cuts for polar science, the proposed investments in icebreakers, and the intricacies of extended continental shelf claims around Alaska. Bloom also sheds light on the vital role of the Arctic Council amidst geopolitical tensions and emphasizes the need for collaboration in shaping future governance in both polar regions.
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Russia Is Indispensable To Arctic Governance
- The Arctic Council's value depends on including Russia because it holds half the Arctic territory.
- Excluding Russia would hollow out the Council's relevance and communication function.
Manage Greenland Tensions Proactively
- Denmark's Arctic chair is actively managing Greenland tensions to avoid spillover into Council work.
- Maintain diplomatic equilibrium among members to keep Arctic governance functional.
Security Focus Shapes Current U.S. Arctic Interest
- The U.S. is emphasizing Arctic security and icebreaker capacity while not necessarily increasing diplomatic Arctic Council engagement.
- Arctic attention centers on competition with Russia and China rather than just environmental cooperation.
