Russia reported oil and gas discovery in Antarctica

Russia has leaked information about the discovery of a massive hydrocarbon reserve in the Antarctic region, where Argentina, the United Kingdom, and Chile have territorial interests.

According to BRICS News, this reserve could contain up to 511 billion barrels of oil, significantly surpassing the North Sea's production over the last five decades.

This discovery raises concerns about the compliance with the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959 by several nations, which establishes the peaceful use of the continent and prohibits military activities, including the exploration of natural resources. Although Russia has been conducting geological research in the region for years, the confirmation of this huge reserve creates new geopolitical tensions.

The Argentine government has closely monitored the issue but has chosen to maintain public silence. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the news has been the subject of debate in Parliament and has raised concerns about Russia's intentions in the region. Despite the lack of official confirmation from Russia, the leakage of this information adds uncertainty to the international scenario.

Antarctica, due to its strategic and environmental importance, receives special global attention. Concern is heightened in a context marked by tensions such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Exploiting natural resources or deploying military objectives in the region would go against the principles of the Antarctic Treaty and the Protocol on Environmental Protection, increasing international concern.