A notorious Russian propagandist has urged Vladimir Putin to retake Alaska, as well as Poland and the Baltic states in a provocative call to arms. Yuriy Evich is a Russian soldier and combat medic, who has repeatedly called for Russia to destroy the West.
He regularly takes to the airwaves to spread his extremist views to Russian audiences far and wide. In his latest interview, the Russian militant praised Putin for “liberating Kursk”, and asked when “the rest of Russian land” would be reclaimed.
“I remind everyone: Poland was a part of Russia, as well as the Baltic states and Finland,” he said.
“Once they broke away from Russia they became hostile to Russia and started to kill our people.”
Then the Russian nationalist went on to question America’s right to Alaska, suggesting there was support among some locals for an invasion by Moscow’s troops.
“Finally I remind all those who have forgotten: the rental period of Alaska ended around 50 years ago if not more according to the agreement – so pay your penalties…
“I’m texting with Russians in Alaska – they are waiting for us and promise to help.”
Like in the case of many Russian ultranationalists, Evich’s reading of history would appear to contradict the facts.
Russia offered to sell Alaska to America in 1859, believing the United States would limit the influence of the UK – Moscow’s greatest rival at the time – in the Pacific.
However, the looming US Civil War delayed the sale. Afterwards, Secretary of State William Seward quickly took up a renewed Russian offer and on March 30, 1867, agreed to a proposal from the Russian Minister in Washington, Edouard de Stoeckl, to purchase Alaska for US$7.2 million.
The Senate approved the treaty of purchase on April 9 and President Andrew Johnson signed the treaty on May 28.
Alaska was formally transferred to the United States on October 18, 1867, ending Russia’s presence in North America and ensuring American access to the Pacific northern rim.
Evich has previously attacked the UK and US, calling for their destruction in retaliation for their military aid to and support for Ukraine.
“The only way to resolve this war is to burn the territory before ‘La Manche’ and drown everything beyond it – America and England,” he fumed in one debate.