Russia actions would likely strain diplomacy — and could bring increased military activity to parts of the Arctic.

As Russia’s military builds up its presence along the border with Ukraine, any incursion there could have significant ripple effects in the Arctic, several experts and observers told ArcticToday.

That could range from degraded diplomatic relations between Russia and the West on Arctic issues, to more military activity in the region — and with it the greater risk of unintentional escalation.

If Russia invades Ukraine, “it’s the end of the Cold War settlement,” said William Pomeranz, acting director of the Wilson Center’s Kennan Institute. In that case, “everything will be on the table, from Russia’s perspective.” Read more at ArcticToday.