“The symbolism of Alaska would be a reminder of how it was possible for the United States and Russia for most of the 19th century to transcend their ideological and political differences and their expansionisms, to have warm, friendly cooperative relations,” says David S. Foglesong, a history professor at Rutgers University - New Brunswick.

Orthodox Christians across Alaska are taking part in three days of prayer for peace, ahead of a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin