In a startling revelation, former US President Donald Trump allegedly proposed to Russian leader Vladimir Putin that Moscow could resolve the Ukraine conflict by repurchasing Alaska—a territory the US acquired from Russia in 1867. The suggestion, described as "off-the-cuff" by sources, adds another layer of unpredictability to Trump’s foreign policy approach.
Behind the Controversial Suggestion
According to insiders, Trump floated the idea during an informal discussion, framing it as a potential "grand bargain" to de-escalate tensions. While no formal negotiations took place, the notion has drawn sharp criticism from political analysts, who call it "geopolitical fantasy" and a dangerous oversimplification of the Ukraine crisis.
Historical Context: The Alaska Purchase
Russia sold Alaska to the United States for $7.2 million in 1867—a deal then mocked as "Seward’s Folly" but later proven strategic. Trump’s suggestion of reversing this 157-year-old agreement has been met with disbelief, with experts noting it would violate US constitutional and international law.
Reactions from Washington and Kyiv
The Biden administration dismissed the claim as "reckless speculation," while Ukrainian officials warned against any backchannel deals that undermine their sovereignty. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesmen declined to comment, though Russian state media has amplified the story, framing it as evidence of US "weakness."
Why This Matters
The episode highlights Trump’s unorthodox diplomacy and raises questions about how a potential second term might reshape US-Russia relations. With Putin recently expressing openness to talks, albeit on his terms, geopolitical observers warn such proposals could embolden Moscow’s territorial ambitions beyond Ukraine.
