Although the United States purchased Alaska from Russia more than 150 years ago, there are individuals who view the recent venue selection as a triumph for Russia, suggesting it could be a move towards reclaiming Alaska.

‘Alaska is ours’

On the streets and airwaves of Russia, the idea that Alaska rightfully belongs to Russia remains alive, often in satirical or provocative forms.

Kremlin-aligned media outlets are reportedly gushing over their country’s links to the region.

In 2022, a Russian billboard in Siberia that declared “Alaska nasha”, meaning “Alaska is ours”, raised alarm among some American politicians. Credit: abc.net.au

Michael McFaul, a former US ambassador to Russia during the Obama administration, said the meeting venue is a reminder to Russian nationalists of a “raw deal”.

“To the Russian politicians who believe they can take back Alaska: Good luck,” he wrote on X.

‘Alaska is the most strategic location in the world’