Russia has recently discovered huge oil & gas reserves in the Antarctic, whose most area is claimed by the UK.
As per Russian research ships, reserves totaling 511bn barrels of oil are reportedly found. Which is 10 times the North Sea’s entire 50-year output.
Just last week, the evidence was provided to Uk’s Commons Environment Audit Committee (EAC).
As followed by the series of surveys by Roseo operated Alexander Karpinsky’s vessel, the russian agency are now charged with finding mineral reserves for commercial exploitation.
However, Junior minister David Rutley earlier told EAC, that he believes in russian assurance, that they are just conducting scientific research adding “Russia has recently reaffirmed its commitment to the key elements of the treaty.”
However, experts warned, that Russia cannot be trusted anymore, citing the example of Russia-Ukraine war.
Antarctic expert Klaus Dodds too, has cautioned that Russian activities in the region appear to be primarily focused on seeking oil and gas for commercial exploitation rather than genuine scientific research.
As a result, the Antarctic Treaty, faces a big challenge from both Russia and increasingly assertive China.
“Rosgeo has been engaging in seismic surveys and other related surveying work … Russia’s activities need to be understood as a decision to undermine the norms associated with seismic survey research, and ultimately a precursor for forthcoming resource extraction.”
Overall, these concerns are expected to be addressed during the 46th annual Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, to be hosted by India in Kochi, Kerala, from May 20 to 30, 2024.
During the meeting, Russia is anticipated to face challenges regarding its purported intentions for fossil fuel extraction.
It remains to be seen how India will navigate and address the concerns of all parties involved.