Putin touts Russia's "great Arctic power" with launch of nuclear icebreakers

President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday touted Russia's "great Arctic power" at a flag-raising ceremony and dock launch for two nuclear-powered icebreakers that will ensure year-round navigation in the Western Arctic.

The Arctic is taking on greater strategic significance due to climate change, as a shrinking ice cap opens up new sea lanes. Vast oil and gas resources lie in Russia's Arctic regions, including a liquefied natural gas plant on the Yamal Peninsula.