In the heart of Anchorage, a palpable tension erupts as Alaskans prepare for the imminent arrival of US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Amidst the swirling emotions, Hanna Correa, who left Ukraine in 2019, joins the protests adorned with Ukrainian flags and reflects on the significance of the event in her adopted hometown. "Putin is supposed to be in jail, and he just comes to Alaska like that," she expresses, her voice quaking with emotion.
Residents are voicing their opinions on the summit, emphasizing their dismay about Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky not being invited. Christopher Kelliher, a military veteran, does not mince words, stating, "It's gross, it makes you want to take a shower," as he expresses disdain for Putin's presence in Alaska.
Historical context adds layers to the sentiment, with memories of when the U.S. bought Alaska from Russia for a mere $7.2 million in 1867. Critics originally dubbed the transaction "Seward's Folly", but the realization of resource abundance has since altered that narrative. Anchoring its Russian heritage, the St Tikhon Orthodox Church remains a focal point for prayers for peace, with parishioners hoping for a resolution.
Reactions vary widely: while some dream of an expedient conclusion to conflict, like local fisherman Don Cressley who wishes Zelensky was present, others remain skeptical. Residents worry about the ongoing military presence, as reported incidents of Russian jets near Alaskan airspace feed a sense of unease. In a show of defiance, Kelliher, however, downplays fears of invasion, observing, "Not really, everybody in Alaska owns a gun."
As Anchorage braces for the summit, the community reflects a mix of hope, nostalgia, and concern about the geopolitics unfolding around them, pondering what outcomes might arise from this pivotal meeting.
