This meeting provides Trump with an opportunity to demonstrate his skills as both a dealmaker and a peacemaker on the global stage. Trump’s supporters view him as an effective negotiator capable of ending the conflict swiftly, a claim he has often made.

For President Putin, the summit represents a chance to solidify Russia’s territorial gains, potentially thwart Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO, and strengthen Moscow’s influence over Ukraine.

The choice of a military base for the meeting offers a more secure environment, free from protests. However, its selection is also symbolically important due to its historical background and geographical position.

Alaska, purchased by the US from Russia in 1867, is less than 5 kilometers from Russia at its nearest point, near the international date line.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson was instrumental during the Cold War in countering the Soviet threat. It maintains its strategic significance today, with planes from the base often intercepting Russian aircraft entering US airspace.