U.S. updated Arctic strategy shows signs of confrontational nature - Peskov

MOSCOW. July 23 (Interfax) - The Pentagon's published strategy of actions in the Arctic has reveals signs of a confrontational nature, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said.

While speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Peskov was asked to comment on the publication of the updated U.S. strategy, which names the Arctic as a core region in terms of defense. The strategy indicated that increased cooperation between Russia and China could change stability in the Arctic and the threat landscape.

"Russian-Chinese cooperation in the Arctic zone can only contribute to the atmosphere of stability and predictability in the Arctic, as this cooperation is never directed against any third countries or a group of third countries, but is only aimed at protecting the interests of the two countries and improving the wellbeing of the two nations. So yes, signs of a confrontational nature can be seen even in this document, which was published by the Pentagon," Peskov said.

The Arctic is a strategic region for Russia, he said. "Russia takes a responsible stance and contributes to ensuring that the Arctic does not become a territory of discord or one of escalating tension," Peskov said.