Russian President Vladimir Putin inaugurated two new nuclear-powered icebreakers on Tuesday, through which he aims to expand the growing fleet of ships through which he aims to make the North Sea axis navigable within a year.
"Ships of this high class have a strategic importance for us. They are needed for the study and development of the Arctic, to guarantee stable navigation in this region, with the aim of increasing traffic in the North Sea axis. Of course, we are open to cooperation with partners who want to work with Russia," Putin said.
Through a video conference, Putin ordered the icebreaker "Yakutia" to be placed in the waters of the Baltic port of St. Petersburg, while he also attended the raising of the flag on the other ship "Ural", which will remain stationary for the time being.