The U.S. has officially expanded its geographical territory by one million square kilometers -- an area nearly 60 percent the size of Alaska.

Excerpt:

”In a historic move, the United States has officially expanded its geographical territory by one million square kilometers — an area nearly 60 percent the size of Alaska. The catalyst for this territory expansion lies in the redefinition of the U.S. continental shelf boundaries.

By invoking international law, the State Department has outlined new areas under the sea where the continental shelf, a seabed area surrounding large landmasses with relatively shallow waters, extends further than previously recognized.

This monumental addition is spread across seven distinct ocean regions, with over half of the new territory located in the Arctic.”

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1,000,000 square kilometers! I know, nobody knows how much area that is, what even is a kilometer? But it’s an important area of the world, gives us a legit claim to keep Russia out of the area, and takes ownership of tons of natural resources.

The Arctic may be the cradle of the future of humanity, as the rest of the planet becomes to warm to inhabit.

Further reading: America’s Arctic strategy: https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/sites/default/files/docs/nat_arctic_strategy.pdf

“We seek an Arctic region that is stable and free of conflict, where nations act responsibly in a spirit of trust and cooperation, and where economic and energy resources are developed in a sustainable manner that also respects the fragile environment and the interests and cultures of indigenous peoples.”

Of course if the Republicans win again the strategy just reverts to “drill baby drill” and Trump will probably sign Alaska over to Russia as a gift.

  • tunetardis@lemmy.ca
    16·
    10 months ago

    As a Canadian, I am not surprised. As global warming melts away the arctic, every country with any sort of territorial claim is asserting it at this point. Many are interested in the drilling and fishing rights. Canada is additionally interested in controlling the Northwest Passage, which is looking rather Panama Canal-like in its potential.

    The business with who owns which continental shelf is where the real political battle is brewing, since it’s easy to interpret the geological data in different ways to suit each country. A much-increased military presence in the arctic seems inevitable.

      • tunetardis@lemmy.ca
        4·
        10 months ago

        Oh I hope they find it on Hans Island! It’s a desolate rock that’s been the site of international intrigue already. There was a border dispute between Canada and Greenland which escalated to the point that Canadian Forces planted a sign reading “Welcome To Canada” and left a bottle of Canadian Club whiskey next to it. Greenland responded by replacing the sign with their own and leaving a bottle of Schnapps.