In a striking scene, Anchorage, Alaska, has transformed into a focal point of political tension as residents prepare for the arrival of US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. With Ukrainian flags fluttering, protester Hanna Correa, a former Ukrainian, expresses disbelief at Putin's visit: "Putin is supposed to be in jail." Many locals have gathered to voice their dissent, further fueled by disappointment that Ukraine's leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, is not invited.
Among protesters is Christopher Kelliher, a military veteran, who decries Putin's presence in Alaska: "It makes you want to take a shower." He emphasizes the discomfort of hosting a leader whose actions have drawn international condemnation. The rocky historical backdrop of Alaska, purchased from Russia in 1867, reverberates through the protests, as residents grapple with their state's Russian heritage and the impact of current events.
Visible signs of this heritage can be seen at churches like St Tikhon Orthodox, where parishioner Priest Nicholas Cragle expresses hope for peace by focusing on prayer. Meanwhile, fishermen like Don Cressley wish for an end to war to preserve lives and livelihoods. "I think it's a good idea [the summit]," he states, urging inclusion of Zelensky.
Tensions remain high amongst Alaskans, as they regularly detect Russian military flights nearby. These occurrences heighten fears of conflict, evidenced by resident Russell Wilson, who reflects on Alaska's geopolitical vulnerability. However, not all share this apprehension; some, like Kelliher, brush off invasion concerns, citing the state's gun ownership.
As locals showcase their viewpoints, they grapple with complex emotions towards global politics and their unique regional history—making Anchorage a true melting pot of opinion during this historic summit.
Among protesters is Christopher Kelliher, a military veteran, who decries Putin's presence in Alaska: "It makes you want to take a shower." He emphasizes the discomfort of hosting a leader whose actions have drawn international condemnation. The rocky historical backdrop of Alaska, purchased from Russia in 1867, reverberates through the protests, as residents grapple with their state's Russian heritage and the impact of current events.
Visible signs of this heritage can be seen at churches like St Tikhon Orthodox, where parishioner Priest Nicholas Cragle expresses hope for peace by focusing on prayer. Meanwhile, fishermen like Don Cressley wish for an end to war to preserve lives and livelihoods. "I think it's a good idea [the summit]," he states, urging inclusion of Zelensky.
Tensions remain high amongst Alaskans, as they regularly detect Russian military flights nearby. These occurrences heighten fears of conflict, evidenced by resident Russell Wilson, who reflects on Alaska's geopolitical vulnerability. However, not all share this apprehension; some, like Kelliher, brush off invasion concerns, citing the state's gun ownership.
As locals showcase their viewpoints, they grapple with complex emotions towards global politics and their unique regional history—making Anchorage a true melting pot of opinion during this historic summit.
