The Northeast Passage is a shipping route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans along the northern coast of Russia. It runs through the Arctic Ocean and includes various straits and seas, such as the Barents Sea and the Bering Strait. This route is significant for international trade as it can reduce travel time between Europe and Asia compared to traditional routes. The passage has gained attention due to climate change, which has led to melting ice in the Arctic. This has made the route more navigable during certain months of the year, prompting interest from shipping companies and countries like Russia and China in utilizing it for commercial purposes.