Climate change, which Western experts view with apprehension, is perceived in Russia as an excellent opportunity.
The American edition “The National Interest” writes about it.
The media drew attention to the “apocalyptic” weather in Siberia, where the air temperature recently reached + 38 ℃ for the first time. The ground, which has been frozen since time immemorial, begins to melt. Such trends, the newspaper writes, can even lead to a spill of oil products. However, the Russian government sees positive developments in what is happening. They are one-sided in nature, as they will allow Russia to get another “hybrid war tool”.
As a result of climate change, Russian agriculture will receive an almost unique opportunity to expand the area of arable land where it has not been possible until now. We are talking about 4.3 million square kilometers of new fields that will be planted with wheat. Although grain accounts for only a small share of Russian exports, this resource is in demand on the world market.
According to forecasts, in 8 years Russia will control one fifth of all wheat exports in the world. Moreover, the same climate change will make many countries dependent on Russian grain. All this will strengthen Moscow’s position in the international arena.
The National Interest assesses the consequences of this alignment using the example of the coronavirus pandemic. When Russia restricted wheat exports, states like Turkey or Egypt were forced to urgently seek alternative suppliers. In times of crisis, this was a serious problem. The publication noted that the restrictions have already been lifted, however, it becomes clear what impact Russia can have if it turns wheat into a “hybrid warfare tool.” By using grain exports to advance political goals, Moscow can subjugate the world without firing a shot.