Crossing the narrow body of water separating Russia and Alaska is generally prohibited due to a complex interplay of international relations, border security concerns, environmental factors, and safety considerations. No single, universally codified law explicitly forbids all attempts, but various national regulations and international agreements effectively prevent unauthorized crossings.
The primary reasons for the restrictions involve managing the borders between two nations with a history of political tension, preventing illegal immigration and smuggling, and safeguarding the fragile Arctic ecosystem. Furthermore, the extreme weather conditions, unpredictable currents, and the lack of rescue infrastructure make the journey exceptionally dangerous, even for experienced adventurers. Historically, there have been periods of more open interaction, especially among indigenous populations, but contemporary geopolitical realities have led to stricter enforcement.
