Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the US’s actions towards Greenland have historical roots, saying, “It is very wrong to believe that this is an exaggerated speech of the new US administration. The US has serious plans for Greenland.” Speaking at the International Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Putin pointed out that the shipping volume through the Northern Sea Route has increased by about 9 times in the last 10 years, with a projected shipment of 70 to 100 million tons per year by 2030. He expressed Russia’s interest in developing joint projects in the Arctic region with friendly countries, and kept the door open for Western countries. Putin noted that due to the confrontational attitude of Western countries towards Russia, cooperation opportunities in the Arctic have been damaged, while assuring that Russia does not threaten anyone in the region but is ready to defend its sovereignty. Evaluating the recent steps taken by the US regarding Greenland, Putin stated, “These plans have long-standing historical roots. It is clear that the US will continue to systematically prioritize its geostrategic, military, political, and economic interests in the Arctic region.” Putin emphasized that the developments between the US and Greenland do not involve Russia, and highlighted, “It is very wrong to believe that this is an exaggerated speech of the new US administration. The US has serious plans for Greenland.”