United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stated on Monday that Russia is deploying its fleet of icebreakers in the Arctic to conduct surveillance operations against the United States. Her remarks came during a cabinet meeting with President Donald Trump and other senior officials.

Noem emphasized the growing strategic importance of the Arctic and said Washington will intensify efforts to protect U.S. interests in the region. “We are seeing increased Russian activity in the Arctic, particularly through the use of their icebreaker fleet, which appears to be collecting intelligence on our infrastructure and movements,” she stated.

The Secretary noted that the U.S. is developing countermeasures and increasing patrols in the area to prevent unauthorized monitoring and safeguard national security. The Arctic has become a geopolitical hotspot in recent years, as countries with Arctic borders compete for influence and access to resources.

While Noem delivered her assessment in Washington, expert delegations from the United States and Russia were simultaneously meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The ongoing talks, which have extended beyond nine hours, are reportedly focused on a range of technical matters, including the possibility of a ceasefire in Ukraine. The Riyadh consultations signal continued behind-the-scenes engagement between the two nations despite strained diplomatic relations.

Officials have not provided specific details about the content or outcomes of the meetings in Riyadh, but both sides are said to be exchanging views on multiple points of contention. The talks reflect a cautious yet deliberate attempt to manage tensions and explore areas of potential agreement.

As Arctic surveillance concerns grow and diplomatic discussions continue abroad, the United States appears to be balancing assertive regional defense with sustained international dialogue.