Putin's Claims 1867 Alaska Purchase 'Illegal' - Is a New Cold War Brewing Over the Arctic?

World News

January 22, 2024 - Reading time: 5 minutes

In a bold move that has raised eyebrows worldwide, Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently declared the 1867 sale of Alaska to the United States as 'illegal,' sparking fresh tensions with Washington. This declaration revisits a pivotal moment in history when Russia, for $7.2 million, transferred Alaska to the U.S., a deal once deemed mutually advantageous.

The Historical Context of Alaska's Acquisition

The Alaska Purchase in 1867 was a key event in the United States' emergence as a major power in the Asia-Pacific region. It ended Russia's efforts to expand in North America, a venture that started in the early 18th century due to the region's rich natural resources and strategic location. Competition with American explorers and Russia's weakened state post-Crimean War led to a decline in Russian interest and capabilities in maintaining its North American territories.

Russia initially offered Alaska to the U.S. in 1859 to counteract British influence in the Pacific, but the sale was delayed by the American Civil War. The deal was eventually struck for $7.2 million and was formalized through a treaty in 1867, marking the end of Russian presence in North America and securing U.S. access to the Pacific northern rim.

For several decades, the U.S. paid minimal attention to Alaska, and it was governed under various temporary and often inadequate systems. However, the discovery of significant gold deposits in the late 19th century, followed by Alaska's strategic importance recognized during World War II, ultimately vindicated the initially skeptical view of the purchase. Alaska's statehood was established in 1959, further integrating it into the U.S. national framework.

Putin's Provocative Stance

Putin's unexpected decree challenging the legality of this historic transaction seems to be more than a mere historical dispute. It fits into a broader pattern of Russian foreign policy under Putin, characterized by assertive, often aggressive, stances against neighboring countries. His tactics mirror those seen in previous conflicts with Georgia, Moldova, and most recently, Ukraine in 2022.

While the likelihood of Russia making a physical claim on Alaska is slim, this move by Putin is seen as a symbolic gesture aimed at demonstrating Russia's unwillingness to accept past international agreements that it now views as unfavorable. Vyacheslav Volodin, the chairman of the State Duma, hinted at this sentiment in 2022, warning that Russia could reclaim properties in response to U.S. sanctions.

Alaska's Strategic Importance

Alaska's geostrategic importance lies in its unique position on the globe, making it a pivotal location for both military and economic activities. Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell highlighted its significance in 1935, noting Alaska's proximity to the Northern Hemisphere's center. This proximity makes Alaska a key site for U.S. military power projection, especially from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

Economically, Alaska is crucial due to its location along the Bering Strait chokepoint and the Great Circle Routes, connecting North America and Asia. These routes are heavily used by shipping companies for their efficiency, saving time and money. Anchorage, Alaska, is a central hub in these shipping lanes, hosting major international corporations like Federal Express and DHL.

As Arctic ice continues to recede, new shipping routes are emerging, such as the Northern Sea Route along Russia's Arctic coast and the Northwest Passage through Canada's High North. These routes, becoming more accessible due to climate change, cut thousands of miles off traditional shipping paths, offering economic advantages. Russia, with its large icebreaker fleet, plays a key role in facilitating shipping through these northern routes, charging fees for its services.

Echoes of Crimea

This is not the first time Putin's Russia has sought to rewrite historical narratives for political gain. The annexation of Crimea in 2014, previously transferred legally to Ukraine during the Soviet era, stands as a stark reminder of the Kremlin's willingness to challenge established international norms.

Putin's declaration regarding Alaska may largely be symbolic and a part of Russia's broader propaganda efforts. However, it underscores the increasingly complex and strained relationship between Russia and the United States. The move is not just about Alaska but reflects a deeper discontent with the current geopolitical order, signaling potentially tumultuous times ahead in international politics.

DW Staff

David Lintott is the Editor-in-Chief, leading our team of talented freelance journalists. He specializes in covering culture, sport, and society. Originally from the decaying seaside town of Eastbourne, he attributes his insightful world-weariness to his roots in this unique setting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin Alaska Washington Asia-Pacific Russian Expansion Natural Resources

You may also like