Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved the construction of a new nuclear-powered icebreaker, the Leningrad, in an effort to bolster commercial trade across the Arctic north. This decision comes as Russia faces Western sanctions over its involvement in Ukraine and looks to the Northern Sea Route as a means to expand trade with Asia. The 170-meter ship, being built by the state nuclear agency Rosatom, is designed to cut through ice and facilitate easier passage for cargo ships in the frozen northern seas. This will be crucial for Russia as it aims to rely on the Northern Sea Route for trade with Asia, particularly for oil and gas sales.

🇷🇺 Today, Vladimir Putin attended the ceremony in St Petersburg to lay down the fifth nuclear-powered universal icebreaker, The Leningrad.

Russia remains the only country in the world with a fleet of nuclear-powered icebreakers. The construction of icebreakers is very important… pic.twitter.com/pfiB2m2v6S

— Zlatti71 (@djuric_zlatko) January 26, 2024

The new icebreaker will also play a role in important exploration and research programs in the Arctic, further solidifying Russia's position as the only country in the world that builds and operates nuclear-powered icebreakers. During a speech at a shipyard in St. Petersburg, Putin emphasized the significance of the Leningrad in enabling more trade with Asia and driving economic growth in the region. The icebreaker is set to be a key player in expanding Russia's commercial presence in the Arctic north, as well as showcasing its technological capabilities on the global stage.