Shvytkin pointed out that the deployment of Russian military potential in the Arctic region is consistent with all international agreements.
“The potential, which is of a defensive nature, is (in the Arctic. - RT ) in accordance with all the norms of international law and various armed treaties ... This is a cover for the northern part of our country, and we will do our best to strengthen the defense component and protect our national interests in this direction, ”said the parliamentarian.
According to him, the Russian defense potential in the Arctic "is adequate to build up a military presence on the part of the countries of the NATO bloc."
“This statement, in my opinion, is an attempt to justify the possible buildup of military potential in the region by NATO countries, which, of course, is unacceptable,” the deputy said.
Earlier, First Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Michael Murphy said the Pentagon should respond to Russia's "growing" military presence in the Arctic.