Trust Us ... Please Do
Which to believe, the bellicose belligerence of Vladimir Putin, Russia's outgoing president, soon to be warmly reinstated, or the conciliatory invitation to co-operate voiced by First Deputy Prime Minister, Sergei Ivanov? It's a no-brainer: Sergei Ivanov, of course. But you knew that didn't you? Just testing.As for Vladimir Putin, it's just his way. He's really a lovable cuddly little bear. Simply misunderstood. Like those whom he represents, actually; the Russian people. Mr. Putin most definitely does not appreciate social or political slights. Nor does he think much of those who kick a man - or a country - when it's down.
And, fact is, that's just what happened to poor old Russia, post-USSR. Suddenly: from a super-power to a collapsed empire. All the prestige, the power, the respect and the acclaim so cruelly evaporated, become unlamented history. Unless you were a Russian, and then you didn't quite know what to think.
Other than that with Communism history, Capitalism could walk in and make everyone as wealthy as those living in the great United States of America. But that's not what happened, as all those assured State subsidies ensuring that people could purchase the staples of life were withdrawn while the country struggled to fend off complete economic dissolution.
That was then, this is now. Russia is irate at all those countries once part of its empire and, as Russia would have it, owing it mightily. Forsaking their erstwhile protector and instead wooing and paying homage to Europe, to the West, eager to join their unions and become as they are. And Russia could do nothing but gnash its helpless, raging teeth.
So when the oil wealth came rolling in there was a little pay-back. Nothing like a bit of vengeful revenge to soothe hurt feelings. And now that Russia is resurgent she takes umbrage at the United States doing as it will on her very doorstep. And who, rationally, can blame her? Hence, Vladimir Putin's various ultimatums and warnings.
All is forgiven.
A useful political alliance can be achieved. It is there, to be accepted and in its promise of a new era of co-operation (remember the good relations between Mr. Putin and Mr. Clinton?) globally-useful arms control protocols can be hammered out between colleagues and friends.
Do it.
Labels: Political Realities, World News
posted by Pieface @ Monday, February 11, 2008
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