Russia Withdraws from Barents Euro-Arctic Council (BEAC)

Russia has announced its decision to withdraw from the Barents Euro-Arctic Council (BEAC), a regional forum aimed at promoting stability and sustainable development in the Barents region. The Russian Foreign Ministry cited the council’s paralyzed activities since March 2022, mainly due to the stance of its Western members, as a key reason for its withdrawal.

Additionally, Finland’s reluctance to transfer the BEAC chairmanship to Russia in October 2023 further contributed to this decision. Russia emphasized its commitment to pursuing its national goals in the North and expressed openness to constructive interactions with parties willing to engage in equal dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation.