Russian President Vladimir Putin paid tribute to Soviet pilots buried in Alaska during World War II, laying flowers at their graves after wrapping up high-stakes talks with former U.S. President Donald Trump. The solemn gesture highlighted a rare moment of historical unity between the two nations.
The pilots, who trained with American troops or delivered U.S.-built aircraft to the Soviet Union under a lend-lease program, perished in Alaska due to accidents or extreme weather. 🌨️ Their missions were part of a critical air corridor established to support Soviet forces against Nazi Germany.
At a joint press conference, Putin emphasized Alaska's role as a symbol of shared legacy: "We stood together against a common enemy. This history should inspire mutual respect today." ✊ He called for renewed U.S.-Russia cooperation, framing their wartime alliance as proof that collaboration is possible despite modern tensions.
Putin’s visit underscores how WWII-era partnerships—like the lend-lease program that supplied 14,000 aircraft to the USSR—remain touchstones in diplomacy. Will this nod to history thaw frosty relations? ❄️ Only time will tell.
