Putin Says India Shows Growing Interest in Northern Sea Route

Russia has a big, icy sea route in the Arctic called the Northern Sea Route.

Because the world is getting warmer, ships can use this route to travel between Europe and Asia more quickly.

Russia's leader, Vladimir Putin, says countries like India and China want to use this route too.

He spoke to sailors on a big Russian warship called the Varyag.

Mr. Putin said Russia wants to cooperate with other countries, but only by following international rules.

He also said some countries are creating 'artificial tensions' in the Arctic.

Other countries, like the members of NATO, are worried about Russia's activities there.

Mr. Putin also warned that if European countries take Russian ships, Russia will do the same to them.

Europe is trying to stop Russian ships that are said to be avoiding sanctions, which are rules countries use to punish Russia for the war in Ukraine.