The Other Border Problem: How Russia and China’s Lawfare Threaten the Arctic (warontherocks.com)

• Russia and China coordinate legal challenges in the Arctic.
• Excessive maritime regulations hinder Western navigation.
• Shadow fleets evade sanctions and undermine transparency.

"Russia and China are increasing their use of lawfare in the Arctic, challenging Western claims through excessive maritime regulations, coordinated continental shelf disputes, and shadow fleets. This cooperation aims to undermine Western freedom of navigation and resource access, turning the once-cooperative Arctic into a contested space. The US and allies face growing legal and strategic threats."