Soon after his confirmation, Dr. Sfraga traveled to Iceland to attend the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík from October 17-19. This Assembly marked one of his first major international engagements, allowing him to connect with leaders and representatives from other Arctic and non-Arctic nations. Then, in an interview with National Public Radio (NPR) on October 20, Dr. Sfraga outlined his Arctic policies. He emphasized the need for robust scientific research towards the Arctic because the significant impacts of climate change on the Arctic are reshaping the region’s geopolitical, economic, and security landscapes. Both mitigation and adaptation policies are needed to address climate change as well as the new norms. When asked about the expansion of Russia in the Arctic, Sfraga stressed the importance of maintaining a U.S. presence, collaborating with allies, and enhancing research capabilities to facilitate policy decision making. Sfraga also predicted potential policy objectives of China in the Arctic, which he described as being multifaceted: “China wants a number of things…They’re looking for economic leverage. They’re looking for resources. They’re looking for influence. They’re looking for domain awareness, understanding the Arctic environment. They’re looking to have a foothold.”

There are many positive responses to Strafa’s appointment. Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, who is also co-chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, welcomed the inauguration of Sfraga. She emphasized that Sfraga is the ideal choice to represent U.S. interests in the region, noting his ability to counter adversarial actions from other countries and support economic development. However, some concerns were also raised during the Senate confirmation process. Idaho Senator James Risch, for instance, criticized Sfraga’s past engagements with Russian and Chinese scientists and officials, questioning if these could compromise U.S. interests. 

Keep In Mind

The creation and fulfillment of the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs position is set to shift U.S. Arctic policies toward a more integrated and proactive approach. Previously, the U.S. Arctic policy was coordinated across multiple departments and agencies without a central figure to drive consistent strategies, making it difficult for the U.S. to effectively influence the region. This position represents a strategic move by the U.S. to elevate its long-term presence in the Arctic and to match the increasing activities of other countries such as Norway, China, and Russia.

Sfraga’s appointment also brings a focus on strengthening diplomatic ties with other Arctic nations to ensure regional stability. As more countries and international players become involved in Arctic affairs, concerns about interests and security issues require the United States to engage in more active diplomatic dialogue. One significant shift to take place under his leadership will likely be a stronger emphasis on actively countering the activities of Russia, and very likely China as well, as both have proven to be increasingly active in the Arctic. The new ambassador is likely to engage in more direct and responsible negotiations with America’s main competitors on issues related to maritime boundaries, resource claims, and military presence. His personal experience with these two countries could help him establish a more responsible and accountable Arctic diplomatic relations with these rivals. Also, the establishment of the new ambassador position reflects a stronger U.S. commitment to Arctic affairs, which will enhance America’s relationships with its allies in the region. Communicating and standardizing the U.S. stance and attitude on issues such as new Arctic shipping routes, energy development, and military bases are crucial to the stability and development of the region, which is the continually stated goal of most Arctic nations.

Additionally, Sfraga is expected to place a greater emphasis on Arctic environmental protection through enhanced Arctic research. He has underscored the need for continuous, long-term research to better understand the region’s dynamic environmental patterns. Also in his interview with National Public Radio, he stated: “We still have a significant deficit in our observation networks…We have to mitigate and understand that what we plan for, we have to plan for not just for the next five or 10 years.” By investing in sustained research and observation projects, Sfraga aims to enhance the United States’ ability to plan and implement effective adaptation and mitigation strategies in the Arctic, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges. This approach is particularly important because warming waters and retreating ice are altering ecosystems and opening new maritime routes. With these insights, the U.S. can better navigate the balance between protecting the Arctic’s unique oceanic resources and adapting to new geopolitical and economic realities in this rapidly changing marine frontier.

This issue’s Spotlight was written by Zhangchen Wang, ICAS Research Assistant Intern.