Could a futuristic tunnel linking Russia and Alaska become reality? U.S. President Donald Trump called the idea 'interesting' during a White House meeting Thursday, while Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave it a hard pass. The proposal – straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster – has sparked wild debates about geopolitics, Arctic resources, and engineering ambition.
💡 The Big Idea: Kremlin-linked investor Kirill Dmitriev proposed an $8 billion rail tunnel under the Bering Strait, dubbing it the 'Putin-Trump Tunnel.' The 112-km project would connect Russia's Chukotka region to Alaska, potentially unlocking joint resource exploration. Dmitriev even tagged Elon Musk's Boring Company as a potential builder.
🗣️ Mixed Signals: Trump kept cards close to his chest, telling reporters: 'We'll have to think about that.' But Zelenskyy – in D.C. to discuss ending Ukraine's conflict with Russia – bluntly stated: 'I'm not happy with it.'
🌐 Historical Context: The Bering Strait (just 82km wide at its narrowest) has inspired bridge/tunnel dreams since the 1860s. This latest pitch comes as Dmitriev pushes to rebuild U.S.-Russia ties through Arctic energy partnerships. No word yet from Musk's camp.
🔮 Why It Matters: Beyond the engineering challenge, this proposal tests post-Ukraine war diplomacy. Could infrastructure trump conflict? Or is this just another pipe dream? Stay tuned.
