US–Russia Bering Strait Tunnel Plan Revived at St. Petersburg Forum

A memorandum expected in Russia signals renewed discussion on a proposed cross-border infrastructure link between Chukotka and Alaska

A proposal to build a tunnel under the Bering Strait connecting Russia and the United States has resurfaced at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where officials confirmed preparations for a memorandum to continue development of the project.

The plan would link Russia’s Chukotka region with Alaska through an underwater route across the Bering Strait, reopening discussion on one of the most ambitious infrastructure ideas involving the two countries.

Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and Kremlin envoy for foreign investment, said the memorandum is expected to formalize continued work on the project. Speaking on the sidelines of the forum, he described the tunnel as a potential landmark infrastructure initiative in US–Russia relations.

Dmitriev also stated that “a tunnel will be built,” adding that it could become one of the largest infrastructure projects ever pursued jointly by the two countries. He noted the presence at the forum of a US delegation led by Rosney Mims Cook, chair of the US Commission of Fine Arts, marking a rare American participation in the event after several years.

According to Dmitriev, discussions include cooperation with a US consulting firm specializing in park design. He also referenced earlier technical hypotheses linked to tunneling technology associated with Elon Musk’s Boring Company. The project, first mentioned in October, was previously estimated at around 65 billion dollars, with possible reductions to 8 billion depending on engineering solutions and technology choices.

Alongside the infrastructure proposal, the forum also highlighted a parallel track of cultural and sporting contacts between the two countries.

A friendly ice hockey match between Russia and the United States is scheduled for July 1 in Moscow, marking the first such meeting in more than seven years. The announcement was made by Robert Agee, head of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia, during a panel titled “Russia–US: Dialogue of Cultures.”

The game is expected to be played at the Luzhniki Olympic complex and coincides with celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of US independence on July 4.

The initiative follows discussions held in March 2025 between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the possibility of sporting exchanges was raised.

Organizers said the match is intended as a symbolic step toward easing tensions between the two countries. Agee also indicated that teams will include both professional and amateur players, with Russian NHL star Alexander Ovechkin expected to participate.

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