Does Russia Touch Alaska? Explained
Russia and Alaska are two neighboring regions separated by a relatively narrow body of water called the Bering Strait. The Bering Strait has a width of approximately 55 miles and is located in the Arctic Ocean. As a result, many people wonder if Russia touches Alaska, and if so, how close they are to each other.
The answer is yes, Russia and Alaska are adjacent to each other, although they are separated by the Bering Strait. The two regions are so close that they can be seen from each other on a clear day. In fact, there are only about 2.5 miles between Russia’s Big Diomede Island and the United States’ Little Diomede Island.
Historical Context of Russian-American Relations
Purchase of Alaska
In 1867, the United States of America purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million. The sale of Alaska was a significant event in the history of both countries. The purchase was initiated by William H. Seward, the Secretary of State under President Andrew Johnson. The Russian Empire was facing financial difficulties, and the sale of Alaska was a way to raise much-needed funds. The purchase of Alaska was met with skepticism and criticism in the United States, with many people referring to the territory as “Seward’s Folly.”
Treaty of Cession and Its Global Impact
The Treaty of Cession, signed on March 30, 1867, marked the transfer of Alaska from the Russian Empire to the United States. The treaty was ratified by both the Russian Parliament and the U.S. Senate. The transfer of Alaska had a significant impact on global politics, as it extended the reach of the United States into the Pacific and Arctic regions. The purchase of Alaska was also viewed as a manifestation of the concept of Manifest Destiny, which held that the United States was destined to expand its territory and influence.
Geopolitical Dynamics Post-Purchase
Following the purchase of Alaska, the United States faced several geopolitical challenges in the region. The indigenous populations of Alaska, including the Aleuts, Alaska Natives, Inuit, Yupik, and Tlingit, had long-standing relationships with the Russians and were wary of the new American presence. The United States also faced pressure from the French, who had territorial claims in the Pacific Northwest.
Despite these challenges, the United States was able to establish a presence in Alaska and develop the region’s resources. The purchase of Alaska also marked the beginning of a new era in Russian-American relations, as the two countries continued to engage in diplomatic, economic, and military interactions. Today, the culture and tradition of Russian influence remain entrenched in Alaska, with St. Petersburg serving as a sister city to Anchorage.
Geographical Proximity and Modern Relations
The Bering Strait and Diomede Islands
Russia and Alaska are separated by the Bering Strait, which is just 55 miles wide at its narrowest point. The strait is named after the Danish explorer Vitus Bering, who discovered it in 1728. The strait is home to two small islands, Big Diomede (owned by Russia) and Little Diomede (owned by the United States). The two islands are just 2.4 miles apart, making them the closest points between Russia and the United States.
Current Political Climate and Diplomatic Ties
The relationship between Russia and the United States has been rocky in recent years, with tensions rising over issues such as Ukraine, sanctions, and election interference. However, there have been some efforts to improve relations between the two countries. In 2018, President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump met in Helsinki, Finland, to discuss a range of issues, including arms control, Syria, and Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, relations between the two countries remain strained. In 2022, the United States imposed new sanctions on Russia in response to the country’s actions in Ukraine. The move was criticized by Russian officials, who accused the United States of interfering in their country’s affairs.
Overall, while the myth of being able to see Russia from Alaska persists, the reality is that the two countries are separated by a relatively narrow body of water. The relationship between the two countries remains complex, with issues such as security, trade, and diplomacy all playing a role in shaping the modern relationship between Russia and the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close is Russia to Alaska at the nearest point?
At the nearest point, the distance between Russia and Alaska is approximately 55 miles (88.5 kilometers). This point is located in the Bering Strait, which separates the two countries.
Is it possible to see Russia from the coast of Alaska?
Yes, it is possible to see Russia from the coast of Alaska on a clear day. The two islands of Big Diomede (Russia) and Little Diomede (Alaska) are only about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) apart, and on a clear day, you can see one island from the other.
What is the shortest distance over water between Russia and Alaska?
The shortest distance over water between Russia and Alaska is approximately 53 miles (85 kilometers). This distance is between the mainland of Russia and the Seward Peninsula of Alaska.
Has there ever been a proposal for a bridge connecting Alaska and Russia?
Yes, there have been proposals for a bridge connecting Alaska and Russia, but none have been seriously considered. The distance between the two countries is too great, and the harsh weather conditions in the area make construction difficult.
What is the history behind the maritime boundary between Alaska and Russia?
The maritime boundary between Alaska and Russia was established by a treaty signed in 1990. The treaty sets the boundary at a distance of 12 nautical miles from the coast of each country, and it also establishes an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for each country extending 200 nautical miles from their respective coasts.
Can you travel directly from Alaska to Russia?
Yes, you can travel directly from Alaska to Russia, but you will need a visa and the appropriate travel documents. The most common way to travel between the two countries is by air, with flights available from several airports in Alaska to destinations in Russia such as Moscow and Vladivostok.