What is the 'super-objective' of hydrology? What mainstreams exist in science? What is the interest of studying snow in the Arctic?—We interviewed Igor Vasilevich, junior research fellow at the Department of Hydrology of estuaries and water resources of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute.

Environmental non-profit organisations and universities are always striving to find an ultimate solution to the decline of sea ice in the Arctic. A company proposes a panacea for all ice-related issues, be it spraying water atop the ice, paving the surface with sand or another substance. The media is in awe, but the project quietly disappears a few years later. Does that sound familiar?

We can see that the short-term vision of the Northern Sea Route is constantly evolving, adapting to the political and economic climate. What are the immediate goals being considered by Russia?

Amidst Trump's plans for Greenland and Canada, the Panama Canal issues have not been associated with the Arctic. Nevertheless, the recent exit of the country from the Belt and Road Initiative might further increase the demand for the Northern Sea Route.

Recently, Russian officials and education representatives have expressed concern for 'technological sovereignty' in the Arctic. What are the key issues in the sphere of education for the northern region?

In 2010, after almost 30 years of distinguished service, the German Council of Science and Humanities proposed a new research icebreaker to replace Polarstern...

Germany has been traditionally a land power. Unlike some of its neighbours such as the Netherlands, Denmark and France, which used to have remarkable overseas empires, German expansion occurred mostly by land...

The role of the Arctic Council, as a permanent platform for cooperation between Arctic and non-Arctic countries, is constantly increasing, despite the challenges that this international organisation is currently facing. This cannot be denied. Within the framework of the Arctic Council, scientifically sound measures are being taken to protect the environment in the region, prevent emergencies, and prepare for response, as well as preserve Arctic flora and fauna.