Alaskans React to the Arrival of Key Global Leaders

From protests to hopes for peace, locals voice their strong opinions as the geopolitical spotlight shines on Alaska.

As global leaders prepare for a controversial summit in Anchorage, reactions among local Alaskans are both passionate and mixed. With the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a palpable tension fills the air, mirrored in dozens of protests led by residents asserting their support for Ukraine, amidst concerns over U.S.-Russia relations.

Hanna Correa, a 40-year-old Ukrainian refugee, found herself overwhelmed with emotion as she joined fellow protesters waving Ukrainian flags upon entering the city. “Putin is supposed to be in jail, and he just comes to Alaska like that,” she lamented, expressing disappointment that Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, has not been invited to the talks.

Echoing her feelings, 53-year-old military veteran Christopher Kelliher, native to Alaska, stated, “It’s gross, it makes you want to take a shower,” expressing his disdain for the meeting between the two leaders. He questioned how Putin, who is wrapped in controversy, could land in their state without serious consequences for his actions.

Alaska's unique historical ties to Russia amplify the significance of this summit. Initially sold to the U.S. for $7.2 million in 1867, the territory has evolved immensely, leading numerous locals to reflect on the historical context. Royal Russian churches punctuate the landscape, with St. Tikhon Orthodox Church holding special prayers in hopes of peace.

Priest Nicholas Cragle, who previously lived in Russia, shared the church's perspective on the matter, revealing that the ongoing conflict is particularly painful for the congregation. “We’re hoping that this meeting will lead to something... lead to a culmination of this conflict,” he said.

Local fishermen also weighed in on the summit's implications for the war in Ukraine. Don Cressley, visiting North Pole, voiced his desire for a resolution to the conflict, stating, “I wish Zelensky would be out here too... get this thing over with.” His concerns extend to the humanitarian crisis faced by Ukrainians as the war escalates.

As military tensions between the U.S. and Russia remain prevalent, Anchorage resident Russell Wilson expressed concern over the implications for Alaskans, given their proximity to Russia. “If the president doesn’t put the hammer down, we could be the next Ukraine,” he asserted.

However, a contrasting perspective arose from Kelliher, who downplayed direct threats claiming, “Not really, everybody in Alaska owns a gun.” This reflects a broader sentiment among certain residents who view fears of renewed Cold War hostilities as exaggerated.

With all eyes on Alaska and global leaders set to meet, the voices of its residents reveal a microcosm of conflict and hopes that resonate far beyond state lines.