I think you people in Europe are ready for another wave of death and destruction to wake you up from your slumber. It is the weakness of the European democracies that caused World War Two. Stalin and Hitler noticed this and had a field day. Amazingly enough, so has Osama Bin Laden and his friends.
The problem is, you guys abused your power so much during the days of colonialism when racist ideology was the underlying foundation of every European nation, that you have given your authority to exercise or even discuss violence to the U.S. So far we are the only ones responsible enough to use it. Even though we have made some mistakes, at least there were good intentions. The most France and Britain can say is "we launched a war in the Suez Canal and used Israel as our patsy when it didn't go right" or worse " we watched 800k people get hacked away in Rwanda."
The European view of world events is based on worn out Soviet propaganda that the Russians never believed themselves.

Rolan, NY, USA

Now,this might be a little crazy,but I remember my father telling me about when he was helping in the freedom of Hungary. It took a long time to free Hungary and it's still not free,(that's my feeling). I am an American,borught here by my parients as "STATESLESS",I still don't have a real answear as why we were given this name of where we came from".Getting back to what this real storie is really about,is the freedom that is constantly being taken away from the people. How does a country assume that they know what it's all about,when in fact they can't even help the situation that they are in .To me, America has a long way to go before it can think that it can help other countries.When Hungary asked for help in 1956 to be free,they were shot down and was taken over by Communizum. Now we have a country that wants to put a ring of Missile bases around Russa,they say that it's for protection of Europe,now why does a Country that has not been here but a few hundred years,know how to rule.

Laszlo Meszaros, Beebe, Arkansas

As an immigrant American who has seen both sides of the pond, I often have mixed feelings about the American world hegemony (or that of the West) of the past 15 years or so. I think what we can see is that the hegemony isn't good for the world and that the world needs a counterbalance to an unchecked US imperialistic ambitions. As much as I love living in America and what it stands for, US needs to understand that the rest of the world can't kneel to it or accept what it tries to feed down other nations' throats.

It's good see Russia and China flexing their muscles to counter the American hegemony. I agree with the article's premise that it really has been the US/Europe's "policy" to isolate and encircle Russia as well as antagonize China whenever possible. Human rights record may be hideous in both nations and individual and political freedoms may be limited there, but we can't keep forcing our ideals on them. Things will change, but only at their own pace.

Alex Khan, Murrieta, California

It saddens me to think of a future where Russia and America once again consider each other enemies. I was a young soldier stationed in Germany in the eighties when I first took time to really think about the Russian people. This was the first time I ever thought more deeply than "American good! Russky Bad!" and I found myself wanting to meet some Russians. Well, I have met many Russians now and I wish I could afford to spend more time in Russia with them. My wife and step-son are Russian, along with her whole family and many friends still in Russia.
What worries me is that Putin, in his grasping for power, will lead Russia to antagonism with the west to make himself look more important. If he was so concerned about his people he could better serve them by stomping out the rampant corruption both tolerated and participated in by the government. Comparing Putin to Stalin is both frightening and accurate. The Russian People deserve leaders who care more about them than power and image.

Jon, LaGrange, Ga, USA

jackson america did not welcome jews from europe during WW2(roosevelt was did not like them) and turned them back around back to germany.second america was not the first to premote inalieble rights in fact that dint come about till the 70s if u dont remeber the civil rights movement and america did not save europe twice.the russians r the ones that saved europe if not the world NAZI Germany there surrender to the soviets and there capital lost to the red amry (soviets).as for WW1 more russians brits and french killed more germans than did america who was only in for 6 months. america has ignored resolutions and laws set by the UN more times than any other country including invading iraq it has also ignored many treaties bannin weapons and have built many not caring that other countries have signe dit to create peace also brings me to the fact america is the only country to use atomic weapons to kill ppl

james leach, valdosta, USA

Everyone is going about history. yes stalin and the USSR is history.
As Evil as Slavery in the US or Colonial rule of my country ( UK ).
You have to look at the present.The fact that Russia came forward with an olive leaf after collapse of USSR is overlooked and still looked at as an enermy.
The fact is that Russia is massive and will always have the resources and manpower to be great is also overlooked.
They have made it clear. the west can have then as an equal friend or equal enermy.It for the West to pick which equal.But make no mistake you can not down grade Russia and history has tried many times from the mongols to Nato.I say putting missile next to their borders and expanding an organisation created against them to their borders sends the wrong message

Sam , blackpool, UK

Ahh, what a refreshing breath of fresh air Mr. Kalesky brings to the table. What a great debt of gratitude we owe him for showing us the evils of the USA. I mean, where we be if the Russia had not, of her own free will and humanitarian spirit, 'decided' to destroy the Berlin Wall which 'magically sprang up in the 1960's of it's own will'. Oh! And who else could we thank but the Russians for such a beautiful 'Prague Spring'? Oh, and let's not forget their pleasent little 'jaunt into Hungary' during the '50's. Ofcourse we should not want to recall the KGB using the East German Stasi as proxies in their little attempt on the life of the Pope...

Anatole, we owe such a debt of gratitude to the governing body which gave us such memorable horrors such as Lenin, and Stalin, without whom Siberia would have been without some of the finest Gulags the world has ever known...

I'm generally not one for bashing other peoples countries...But I'm darn tired of people who live here bashing mine.

David, Lanham , MD

Folks..Its here. The "NEW" Cold War is already underway. WHY it came about is irrelevant. Just as the NEW rich control massive amounts of the country, so now do the NEW military and the government. I for one am not surprised.The great revolution of democracy was NEVER shared by the masses. To many, although it was bad, the OLD days and ways seemed much better. And God knows where tons and tons of military weapons and what not went? We have ALWAYS treated Russia as a second rate/ignorant cousin. (dangerous but controllable.) Well, Now the cousin has been to the world school and has been educated in the ways of the west.
when you combine this knowledge with the HUGE nationalism pride that has been prevelant since day one and we have trouble and it aint goin away because we say so. And we damn sure are NOT going to invade this country because of lies and false agendas.. Lets hope we learned something after all this time.

Lawrence Lack, Nashville, tn

Somebody needs to tell jackson franco from nadmacher atlanta to go read a history book, THEN make his opinions. Hitler lost more because he was foolish enough to invade Russia (where 20 million people, including millions of innocent civilians) died, than because of America (who lost a comparatively small 400K, mostly military). Take away Russia, and all of Europe is probably saying 'heil Hitler' today. We barely beat Hitler, and then only after Russia had bled him for 3 years. I know we Americans overwhelmingly don't understand that (they prefer the 'we're the heroes' fantasy), but its high time they got the facts right.

Larry Cahill, Irvinne California, USA

It is so easy for Anatole Koletzky to preach about how horrible the USA is and how we are destroying the peace and goodness of this planet.

Let me remind you , Mr. Koletzky, the USA is the ONLY nation outside of Israel that ever gave refuge to Jews after your wonderful Europe murdered them by the millions, from the Spanish Inquisition to Hitler's Judenrein campaign.
It was the USA which gave religious freedom to every one of its citizens and who was the first nation in the world to give every man, woman and child the inalienable right to be all they can without interference from the State.

Further, the USA which you depict as evil is the nation which freed Europe TWICE...remember? With the blood of our young men and women WE saved YOU from being slaves to Hitler.

Here is a suggestion...stop criticizing the USA for a change and start being pleasant to us, even grateful for our friendship , for without us Europe is fragile and alone.

Jackson Franco Handmacher, Atlanta, Georgia/USA

The tragedy that Russia is trying to resolve was Yeltsin. He was a peasant drunkard who knew how to dismantle the USSR but had no idea how to refashion the economy or government. He sold (very well run in many cases) state owned businesses to gangsters, including energy companies, for peanuts. Putin shrewdly reversed some of Yeltsin's blunders which included energy give-aways to western oil and gas companies, which inked out profit sharing goals almost as ruinous (to the locals) as the US Iraqi Hydrocarbon Law (probably the only thing Iraqi's agree and which they overwhelmingly reject as theft of national treasure). To speak of Ukraine (I have visited many times before and after the color revolution and my wife is a Ukranian national from Kiev), many above have correctly identified their strong Russian identity in the eastern half of the country.

nardami, waltham, ma

Russia is right to feel the way they do. Sure, Russia has a poor human rights record, but they have been shunned by the rest of the world for many years. Only by opening to real interchange with them can we become true friends. Russia is a powerful country, and treating them as unwanted heathens will only create a future in which they will treat us in kind. As far as Matthew Halula's comments, I must add that democratic governments have gone to war against each other - remember, Hitler was elected. There was no coup d'etat to lend him the reigns of Germany.

Will, Conroe, USA

and to those who enjoy life in this great country, if you hate it so much, and cannot find anything good to say about your adopted country - go back to where you came from or any country of your choice and see how well you fare - e.g nardami and associates

tim johnson, kuwait city, kuwait

I find it interesting that the majority of nations complaining about US policies are those whose governments are either controlled by or heavily influenced by socialist/communist elements or those muslim countries whose leaders espouse Islam as a world dominating religion. Those conflicts are hardly new. The United States has been under attack from one country or another since it's founding fathers decided to leave their home and establish a nation where they could practice their religion and politics in peace. That basis has never changed. All of the european nations at one time or another have been allied with the US - their allegiances change like the wind and the seasons - their hearts have never been with us - only their wallets. One wonders what would happen to the rest of the "free" world without the billions that the US pours into it........

tim johnson, kuwait city, kuwait

BRAVO!!!!!! finally SOMEBODY in the western press puts some thinking before their opining about Russia. again- bravo and well done. now tell your friends in places like the NY Times and Washington Post to follow your lead.

Larry Cahill, Irvinne California, USA

As an American, I know all too well that we, or OUR GOVERNMENT, must always have or find an enemy. This, in part is to justify our aggression in other parts of the world, military buildup, or to restrictions placed on American Citizens.
We, in fact, are the bad guys, the enemies of peace and prosperity.
Hopefully, this next election will see a change in politics and end the era of a two party system, and that of the USa being the most aggressive country on the face of the earth.
If not, I am afraid it may just be the end of Earth. You can bully and push for only so long, before someone bigger and badder comes along to kick your hiney.
Al Qaida showed us it could be done, and that we were vulnerable. Now, we are even more vulnerable.

DeeDee, phoenix, USA

As a European and having travelled to Russia on many occasions, I feel that Russia is much closer to us Europeans than America ever can be. By that I mean that being in Moscow is very much like being in Berlin and not at all like being in Chicago. Walking down Tversakaya street is very much like walking down any European capital's shopping street and the people are like any other people in Europe. Same interests, same mentalities. Same cannot be said for other countries of the world.
Some politicians may try to make use of lingering old "cold war perceptions" but cannot alter the fact that a Moscovite is a European by nature, whereas a New Yorker will never even understand us.
Russia continues to be treated as a dark force deserving suspicion while other countries with far greater problems in the international community such as China were granted entry into the WTO because of US interests while Russia was denied entry...
Silly politicians cannot create cold wars like in the past.

charles Backer Dirks, Barcelona, Spain.

Im reading a few comments from americans who write here saying that all the rest of the world is anti-US, and then they justify what america does by saying that they saved europe in the world wars. America's involvement in the world wars was not to help europe or to battle hitler (in the 1st world war america joined in the last year realizing that britain had borrowed billions of dollars, and used the reason of germany's urging of mexico to join the war) and the (2nd world war, USA joined because of Japan, not to save europe).
by comparison, it was the russians who poured all their men and equipment to fight hitler, 20 million russians lost their lives, fewer than half a million americans did. Both were important, i do not say they were not. But stop saying that US had to save Europe. And even worse dont justify your actions because of this !!
The world does not need the US to take care of it. And the real enemy of the US is its fanatical ideas and foreign policies not Russia.

G. Micallef, Balzan, Malta

The West is capitalist, lets not forget. Meaning, it will always place capital/profits first. Fear and greed are its two basic components, and COMPETITION, not co-operation, is the ' name of the game.' Extreme Islam is too vague and illusive an opponent, therefore General Managers of America are reverting to 'tried and true' ways of raising morale of their people by resurrecting the 'ghost' of Russia. By insinuating, no less, the danger inherent in strong and prosperous neighbor. With a view, I'm sure, to its treasury of natural resources. Oil is running out. Time is running out. A business deal with Kremlin is looming on the horizon. Preemptive Attack, remember? "Love thy neighbor as thyself", is still a beautiful dream.

Daniel, Los Angeles, America

Lift the latches, open up the doors and borders, cancel all silly visa requirements and obstacles and you will be surprised how safer and more peaceful the world will be without additional billion investments. When ordinary people can travel, see other cultures, they will have no thought of sending a missile to the ones they know personally and who are their friends. Such people are harder to be manipulated even by a most vicious dictatorship. Borders and visas are the sillest thing the mankind invented. Many people in the US and EU do not have a slightest idea how inaccessible for majority of Russians are Niagara Falls, Grand Canyon, Big Ben or Great Barrier Reef as well as those who live near them, if even they are next of kin, as if they are on Mars, not Earth, thank to the Dept of State and its policy.

Oleg, Saratov, Russia

the russians have been a strong and proud people historically and they deserve respect. in human history, the world has seen few empires as large and powerful as the soviet empire. as of now, russians are the only country which possesses the means and will to return the western world to stone age if the west intends to attack russia. therefore, the prudent way to treat russia is to treat it fairly and in a constructive manner. cooperation and mutual respect are key to building a peaceful and prosperous world. on the other hand, we people in he US should remember that we have our own weakness despite all our strengths. having a new cold war with russia in the future is not a wise thing to strive for. we are a people who could perish as easily as any other people in a nuclear war regardless of whatever shields we may build. so, to know both our enemy and ourselves is so important at this juncture in history.

tony, el paso, usa/texas

Brian, I don't think Europeans ignore the fact that we've kept them free for the last century, but rather that they disagree with our current strategies.

They don't recognize it, but we are fighting in their best interests, as always. While Europe will let 18 of its soldiers be taken by force without a reaction, we strike back. We are containing China and Russia, not Europe. We are fighting Islamic fundamentalism, while Europe is slowly changed into an unrecognizable part of the new Caliphate, perhaps in as little as 60 years.

Europe is embittered by 2 world wars and a history of terrible acts. Their defensive response is to resort to extreme liberalism, even to the extent of not defending themselves. America has not suffered events like that; we are still an energetic and proactive nation.

Ross Wigley, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

BRAVO!!!!!! finally SOMEBODY in the western press puts some thinking before their opining about Russia. again- bravo and well done. now tell your friends in places like the NY Times and Washington Post to follow your lead.

Larry Cahill, Irvinne California, USA

Oh, dear. Why is it that no essayist can discuss the unique history and viewpoint of another nation without some Americans immediately reading the article as an attack on Mom, apple pie, and the US of A? Why must every discussion of world affairs always somehow relate back to us and how wonderful we are--or were a few wars ago?

Come on--we spent a long time ago whatever capital we earned by fighting on the right side during WWII. If we want a good name for ourselves in this new century, we'll have to start all over again and get it the hard way. We'll have to earn it. It will not be accomplished by using cheap rhetoric against others or self-righteous boasting about ourselves.

Alice, Hays KS, USA

I could care less about what some people have said. This and that about WW2. We saw a threat to our nation, to the people of the world. Heroically, men AND women of all ages banded together to help fight off an evil of the world. Before that time, none of the European nations NEEDED to have such a large army. It's not their fault that they were overrun. The only reason the same thing didn't happen to us, is our remoteness. We are much farther away, otherwise if Germany was right on our border, they would have penetrated and most likely taken over America and it would be other countries who bailed us out. I hate the fact that people think we are "cowboys" or that we are the all mighty nation on this planet. We simply aren't, we are still a very young nation and sometimes we are run by some of the wrong people. Now I know many people are severely upset with what Bush has set in motion. After reading a few of these articles, it even sounds like he is trying to bully the world.

Andrew, Cedar Rapids, USA

Say whatever you want to say but by gosh if you live in the United States and enjoy it's FREEDOMS then kindly keep your mouth off of our armed forces. It is because of all those boys and now girls that you have those FREEDOMS to live by and to talk about whatever you want. Hypocrisy is not pretty not at all. Simply get off your behinds and get the heck out of my country if you don't like it. And if you do enjoy the freedom's here then kindly keep your DAMN mouth shut insulting our boys who have died for your sorry butt. My son has served in Iraq and I for one am grateful to him and all the boys and girls before him that risked their lives for me so that I may live in this country and enjoy my freedoms. ]

Della Goodin, Cincinnati, Ohio USA

i totaly uderstand what the russians are going through right now on global platform,the west has never trusted the russians even before the ww2,they were allways considerd the outsiders among the west,the child that never got accepted in this happy family,the reason americans got a strong grip on western europe , not because they want to help western europeans to rebuild the continent ,that sounds very nice ,but reality was that americans didnt want russians to take over europe after victoriously defeating the germans before they got to moscow.western europe was a accupied continent by the americans ever since,(political decissions were never made based on human lives ,but on political gains) in ww2,or in any war in that matter.

saber, houston, usa

Pusuant to the above, the economic reforms that were rammed through by the US (via the WB and IMF) in the early 90's were seen correctly by Russian economists as a 40 billion dollar give-away...most of those loans could have been depositied directly in Swiss bank accounts and by-passed the Russian people, because that is exactly what happened after the funds were dispersed (see Stiglitz, former WB PRes book on the matter). US dreams of a capitalist/democratic Russia were stillborn without adequate institutions in place before pouring in tons of money. Western corporate greed focused on how to carve up Russian industry (which turned out to be rather well run, though disastrous to the environment ...though US corporations have more than their share of skeletons here in the US and abroad...remember Bophal and the Exxon Valdez just to name a few). Today the US hegemony is perilously in jeapardy, largely as a result of the Bush Blunder, and introduction of capitalist systems in China.

nardami, waltham, ma

Hmmmm,
many of you won't like this but the truth, at times, does hurt.
all of you who are complaining about USA have that freedom because a small band of men defied tyrany and put their lands and lives on the line to create a land of freedom.
those ideals have now spread now to most of europe, east asia and many other parts of the world. allmost all of these areas where at war with america at one time. no democratic government has ever declared war on onother one. that peace and the freedom that comes with it where bought with the blood of the sons and daughters of this nation.
constructive critisism i will always listen to, but hate speech just shows Your lack of knowledge and tact, not your wisdom.

matthew halula, topeka, usa

Every country has done great and terrible things. Each worldly government has and can only fail. Only when men's lives and actions are ruled by their hearts, instead of their desires, will man see peace. Patriotism is leads to sides being taken. Stage 1.Nations throughout time have become powerful out of oppression, exacerbation and humiliation.
Stage 2. The powerful realize their power and begin to use it for personal gain.
Stage 3. Pride begins to give a false sense of security as resources are trimmed to accommodate for more personal satisfaction
Stage 4. The people become overextended and vulnerable.
Stage 5. The enemy sees and begins capitalizing on the weakness.
Stage 6. The false sense of pride is clinged to for far too long until the day they are overtaken.

... back to stage 1......

Dave Rice, San Diego, CA

How would the US feel if Mexico peeled off large sections of the Southwest (Texas, Arizona, NM, Colorado and half of California) with the backing of the world? And then stationed sophisticated weaponry on the new border?

I am amazed at the reactionary comments to an article intended to provide some insight from another perspective...one outside the myopic and very one-sided version the US gets from main-stream 'media". Or is it a US notion that might is right, and thereby it's our way or the highway?

Far from the economic powerhouse the US used to be, we are now the largest debtor nation on the planet (thank the Chinese, Russians, and Japanese amongst hosts of others who finance our irresponsible spending habits) and our currency is in the toilet. Were it not for our sweet deal with the Saudi's wherein oil is priced in dollars, the US greenback would be at the bottom of the Atlantic.

nardami, waltham, ma

It's all about natural resources. Look where the US has milatry bases and you will not be far from precious resources (oil, gas, ores, and water). The US wants to carve up any opposition to it's corporations' aspirations to control the world's wealth. Problem is, other people live in those countires where the resources are located, and some have powerful miltaries too.

nardami, waltham, ma

And I fail to see how the US remains a paragon of democracy since our elections have been hijacked, our justice department subverted to political whim, and Guantanamo's Camp X-Ray (and other secret overseas detention centers) serve to remind the world who is and isn't entitled to participate in lady liberty and her side-kick justice. It is clear that corporations control the US government; the electorate votes, but the politicians they put in office are beholden to higher masters. Is this a democratic republic, or a plutocracy? I think most have figured out the US has become the latter...lobbying laws have legalized corruption, and the justice department has been subverted to support their cause. Never have I seen freedoms and protection intented to serve the people so eroded in this country,. Though the slippery slope downward started with Reagan's failed trickle-down economics, Clinton started the give-away of US prosperity for the masses with NAFTA and GATT, and Bush the finale.

nardami, waltham, ma

I have spent the last 2 hours reading through most of these and what is very interesting to me is that while many here seem to love to bash America and Americans, where would many of you be without us and our interventions? Lets look at a little track record shall we? WW1. America had to come in and save the day for Europe. WW2. American had to come in and save the day for Europe and much of Asia. After these two devestating wars, it was time for someone to step up and take care of the rest of you because frankly, Europe especially cant do it by themselves. Has america messed up? yes it has, especially recently because of Bush, but that pales in comparison with leaders and policy of other nations of the world in the past and present. Hitler, Stalin, mussolini, Hussein, Putin, Ali Khamenei and so many others lead/led tyrannical governments with little opposition and killed literally in some cases millions yet America is the bad guy?? Some here need to take a reality check....

brian, Manhattan, IL

I have traveled. I have been in the heart of Russia, lived with Mexicans, Vietnamese, Chinese, Brazilians, Africans, Asians, Russians and was born in East L.A., grew up in a primarily latino area that was full of murderous violence every single day and I’ve worked with developing nations to bring education and industry to their lands. What I know about the people of the world is that families and most single people are generally peaceful and they suffer from both local terrorists (thugs) and violent, corrupt governments at every turn, from the local politicians all the way up to the national level, 9 out of 10 politicians are generally corrupt and 9 out of 10 people on the street are generally sweet as pie and treat you like family no matter where you go. That’s the global reality no matter where you go on this planet. It seems to be a ratio related to our species. (cont)

C, SF, USA

It seems the latest global phenomenon is to put down America or be an arm chair politician. Yes, America may be making mistakes and disrupting things in the world now but, who does the world call on when in time of need. Who rebuilt Europe and Japan? The American taxpayer! Who infuses the world economy? The American consumer! Who has compassion for the victims of natural and un-natural catastrophes? The Americans When you point fingers keep in mind that three of them are pointing back at you. Do we not remember the colonization efforts the old world took on… It would seem it has had lasting effects on the world to this day. So to simply summarize if you live on the other side of the Atlantic – You started it! :)

tony , Bakersfield, USA

I think its far to easy to consider a people and its government as one entity. If the Russian government wants to restart these bomber patrols, thats obviously not something i want, but i cant blame the common citizen for it. do you think i want my government building a missile shield? heck no! theres about 3 trillion better places for them to sink 3 trillion dollars. i think your average Russian feels the same way about these bomber patrols. i seriously doubt our government will ever need to use that shield as much as i doubt the Russian government will need to use their bombers. schools, roads, real long term jobs, medical research! these are good places for this money!

and i seem to remember the Chinese as allies during WW2, their government has gone sour, but i still think their people are right minded, just like the Russians, Iraqis, Afghanis.

cure cancer, cure aids, then blow people up, ill stop complaining if they do those things first.

Mike, , usa

Protect your contry from threat coming from outside or from INSIDE, amercian and russian ppl are dragged into this war again, the enemies are closer than you tink, the enemies are the ones who want to declare war, the ones who are ready to kill innocent people to make more money, they tink we are in 1940 that a war will bring them everything they want, but let me say only 1 thing, war never bring good things, it only bring death and chaos. Why you have to invade a country if the leader of this country is a dictator? Maybe some people dont believe in freedom, this word cannot be imposed, you must let the time do it's job, a dictator is not there forever, but the words freedom and liberty will always be in our minds, let those people do what they want and dont say them what to believe, one day, they will understand, if the majority of the world want peace we can have it, if you want war, let destroy ourself...

Frederick L., Montreal, Canada

I consider Mr Kaletsky's confused and grossly biased treatment of this subject to be worth not one shred more than the 3 minutes 37 seconds of time I wasted on reading it.

He asks us to see the point of view from inside the Kremlin, where the ex (still) Communist leaders are disappointed that they have not been trusted enough (no Nato/WTO) to work the dialectic process of bringing down the 'Kapitalists' from within, and have gone back to the belicose "business as usual" doctorine.

Anatole can't see past his "weakening the motherland" viewpoint to see that our process of helping the former Soviet-Slave-States enough to survive will look that way from the former masters' viewpiont.

It is clear that with this process (and any US-led) being thwarted at every turn by a man that Anatole himself admits relishes the role of provacateur, not to mention acts like not returing the stolen Sakhalin Island to Japan and murdering dissent, that Russia has cast ITSELF in the role of 'enemy'.

Jim Spark, El Paso, Texas

True enough, the threats today come to a large extent from the USA , the bully on the block. The USA is the only country in the world that wages illegal wars and invades sovereign countries.
Russia and any other country in the world has a right to be worried by the continuous developement of new weapons of mass distruction by the USA.

No other country in the world spends as much money as the USA on technology aimed at killing as many people as efficiently as possible.

We have all seen recently (Rove etc ), that the whole A,merican administration is riddled with corruption disseminating disinformation and lies to the general public. Unfortunately the intellectual ability of a large portion of the American populace is on such a low level that they beleive anything

Fortunately things will change. The dominant position of the USA will be gone in the next 20-30 years. The real danger lies in the fact that the USA may decide to go to war to retain its global hegemony

Bertil Sumelius, Helsinki, Finland

Can you...human beings....have faith in yourselves? You have two choices...WAR or SUPPER. Did you get that? Russia will spend 200 billion dollars to beef up its WAR machine. USA spend trillions on its WAR machine. Iran is spending much of its wealth on possible WAR devices. China speeds billions of dollars on its WAR machine.
What would happen if Russia spent 200 billion on industry for job creation? If the USA would spend trillions on helping the worlds deprived? If Iran would spend its money on creating hope for its people? If China would help those countries around it to build economies?
The mentality of man is BIGGER is better and stronger means power. What if.....all these nations would feed, house, educate and create a means of prosperity for its people? In a time of need who would serve you better....an oppressed people who live in mud shacks, sell their bodies to feed their children or a people who prosperous and have hope? Lets feed Iraq instead of killing them.

Tomas, Little Rock, Arkansas

Bush has taken America to confrontation with the rest of the world. If Americans are stupid enough to believe that their population of 300 million is powerful enough to defeat a planet
of 6 billion people who hate Bush and America, then they are
grossly retarded. The entire Bush run American government has been funded by loans from those who hate America. Thanks to Bush, China, Russia or Dubai can crash the American economy anytime they want. And they will eventually. Bush sold America to our enemies and Al Queda.
They own America now. If they call the debt, we are screwed.

Cal, Arvada, USA/CO

Bush and Putin are following the same "make war to stay in power" plans.
Western ignorance and hubris is providing the fuel for it's destruction. The businesses that run the US politicians will continue to see the $ as their god, and lack the Christian values they espouse to resolve human inequities. In 2006, the US gave 38.8% of its budget to Military items while spending 2.1% on housing, 3.6% on education, 2.6% on nutrition, 3.4% on VA benefits, .3% on job training, and 6.5% on income security.(GoodMagazine Issue004) Nutrition spending goes mostly to Agribusiness and rich landowners who don't farm instead of local farmers who need it, No Child Left Behind is not funded, Veteran's are denied the services they need from serving in Iraq, Soc.Sec. is going bankrupt, unemployment numbers don't reflect the homeless working poor with 2 jobs and no benefits. We are a loving people and must practice the Christian values we espouse. We need Obama!

Ann, Bklyn, NY

Russia will again rise to be a leader on the world stage. Through it's bonds with China, Iran, Iraq and other Muslim countries in the middles East, she will become a major player just as the United States and Great Britan will sink to a "has been" status. As a result of this bond, the disire of the Muslim heart will be achieved! A 200,000,000 man army will invade Israe! A not so great Britan and a un-United States will do nothing more that file a formal protest in the United Nations!
You will have to read Ezequiel 38 & 39 to see how it comes out!

Jesse Garnett, Pasadena, Texas/ USA

Hurray for Chaos! You all talk about nations and religion. You're just uneducated. Capitalism rules!

Estel Cooper, Winchester,

The world is rapidly turning to democratic individual countries
Russia as long as they have their harsh, coldwarlike rhetoric like attitude will never fit in
We in the USA need to be prepared for this stalinist, (hitler like attitude ruler.
He is already putting pressure on countrys that want to be democracys in his own back yard and thats not good for the world or peace
Putin makes deals with terrorist harboring countrys like Iran who is giving bombs to terrorists and training them to kill our boys in Iraq.
He does not want to hekp the situation just to make it as bad as he can for americans, so i think its hiigh time we cut ties with them and go back to the cold war era with them as we will out last them and before too many years either God will come and straighten out this mess or there will be peace becasue the russian people will grow tired of hunger and poverty under his rule becasue as you know just because they have oil they dont have food they get that from the west (USA)

Theodore, Streetsboro, Ohio/USA

The Russians are but a crumbling giant of the past now. Do they seriously they can stand up to the awesome might of the US? I think not. Let us not launch into an overture about military technologies. Fact is, Russians are communists and will always be that way. We, the free men of the world must stand up to this threat and not take it lying down if we are to have a future.

Zacchaeus , Singapore, Singapore

The proposed missile shield in eastern Europe is dangerous and destabilizing. The Russians will never be sure that we have not increased both the number and range of the interceptors. <BR><BR> They will lose confidence that their strategic rocket forces could survive an American surprise attack, and will fire their strategic rockets at the first suggestion of an attack. They may try to pre-position bombs in the United States. Then, all that will be needed for an H-bomb to go off in an American city is for some Russian army officer to sell the firing codes to Al Qaeda.<BR><BR> If the US Congress doesn't have the sense to block this missile shield, NATO should do it for them.

Arthur Wilton, Newport Beach, California

Do a google on YAMANTAU MOUNTAIN and then try to tell the world that the West is responsible for the "new" Cold War.

Andrew P. Kantz, Marion, Iowa

It seems the latest global phenomenon is to put down America or be an arm chair politician.
Yes, America may be making mistakes and disrupting things in the world now but, who does the world call on when in time of need.
Who rebuilt Europe and Japan? The American taxpayer!
Who infuses the world economy? The American consumer!
Who has compassion for the victims of natural and un-natural catastrophes? The Americans
When you point fingers keep in mind that three of them are pointing back at you.
Do we not remember the colonization efforts the old world took on… It would seem it has had lasting effects on the world to this day.
So to simply summarize if you live on the other side of the Atlantic – You started it!

tony , Bakersfield, USA

I have traveled. I have been in the heart of Russia, lived with Mexicans, Vietnamese, Chinese, Brazilians, Africans, Asians, Russians and was born in East L.A., grew up in a primarily latino area that was full of murderous violence every single day and I’ve worked with developing nations to bring education and industry to their lands. What I know about the people of the world is that families and most single people are generally peaceful and they suffer from both local terrorists (thugs) and violent, corrupt governments at every turn, from the local politicians all the way up to the national level, 9 out of 10 politicians are generally corrupt and 9 out of 10 people on the street are generally sweet as pie and treat you like family no matter where you go. That’s the global reality no matter where you go on this planet. It seems to be a ratio related to our species.

CM, SF, USA

To Mark from New Orleans,

I just about fell out of my chair from laughing so hard at your questions.

Your next question should be - Did the Native Hawaiians really want to be annexed or was it the dream of the ex-patriate white American residents?

And right after you get through rationalizing that annexation, you can move on to the Texas annexation.

And I'm sure we can come up with lots more examples for your attention.

Not that this makes me anti-american. It just makes me an informed student of world history.

Mo, Washington, DC

By telling someone or some nation that you view them as your enemy you will make them your enemy even if they didn't seek this relationship beforehand. Is this what the United States and the nations of western Europe want in the instance of Russia? Be careful of getting what you want in that case.

Paul Sauer, Lindenhurst, USA/New York

We are alll Sitting on the same Rock. What will we do, when our governments push things to such an extent ,that the rock becomes uninhabitable.America find better ways to move about with out oil, Russia quit taking your hard working peoples money and leaving them with barely enough to live.
Muslims If your religion tells you to KILL each other and everyone else in the name of your god FIND ANOTHER RELIGION.
We are all humans, Invent ways to fix our PLANET,not kill our people. I dont care if you are Russian, Chinese , Hindu, Muslim or whatever. SEEK PEACE, We all spend so much time making our points that we loose focus on what is needed
for our childrens future, What are we teaching them, What will they become from our actions today. God forgive us all , this is not what he had in mind

Rob D, prescott valley , Arizona USA

If the American public insist on electing mediocre presidents by not educating themselves about the candidates they plan to cast ballots for. If the American law makers refuse to questioned the motive and the soundness of the federal government foreign policies. if the American Judicial system prefers to be a tool for the federal government to advance its ideological views. Thank God for any kind of emerging superpower that can bring a sense of balance in the world. We all must first love the world as a whole before we can love any country as a part.

gilou, tamarac, florida

It is too bad that the Iraqi War happened, but it did--just as the mishmash in Vietnam started way back in the fifties when France was involved so heavily, and, I do remember some people were condeming French soldiers as they do US soldiers in Iraq.

So handy to blame George Bush for everything bad and wrong in the world, but he has time and again stood up for his country, and won't bow down to the idiots who have pandered to Europe over the years. Even FDR allowed Americans to die on Corregidor and Bataan because he was so wrapped up in European matters. One thing about Europeans, they can start wars, but they always call for the US to finish it for them, and also to rebuild their countries while doing it.

Russia is again showing two faces. It is also keeping the unrest going in the mideast by arms, rhetoric, and innuendo. They must be stopped.

If you don't like the US, stop the world and get off.
We won't miss you.

W. Lee Wacker , Hopkinsville, Kentucky

Let us all turn back now, to our "beginner level" studies of political science. Remember, any political entity shares in some measure the same characterisitics of both its enemies and its allies. They have varying degrees of political
bias, but they are all cut from the same cloth. When these "biases" become most noticeable is when there is a shift from the "norm" (whatever in the hell that is) to go in yet another direction, to accomplish a goal.

We in the U.S. would probably still be counting "chads" in Florida, had not the public gotten weary and just given in to a "fixed" election. Not much difference there than in other countries where they have one candidate in the election.

I encourage eveyone to travel to other countries and meet the people. Talk to them, if possible. What is national policy is often not in the hearts of the people.

We Americans need to remember that we are a young country and because we have had good luck, appear to be very full of ourselves.

B. T, St. Louis, Mo.. USA

After decades of receiving filtered news about Russia, what does the average American really know? I observe a country that moved away from it's roots in a Christian God unto a humanistic idiology that bought them a slow death. The ambition to be a great country must again be rooted in it's clergy not in it's temporary economic gain. World politics must consider always the religious underpinings and foundation of any country and only then can you see a clearer picture of it's future.

Stephen Wade, Shrewsbury, Mass

When the USSR fell, the USA was loved and respected throughout the world. That is the main reason US influence had its heavy sway over the situation. But its amazing how one man, George Bush, has been reckless and inconsiderate of any others veiws. Before the neocons, scream and yell, that I am anti-american, I want to remind everyone that the UN called the war in Iraq illegal. The world stood up and said no war, but Bush and UK's Blair, decided that they knew more than the entire world. As many predicted before the invasion of Iraq, the world will turn there back on you not just on this but on other things as well. Bush decided to invade which was a terrible mistake. On top of that he did soooo many other things that fueled the fire of anti-american attitudes in the world, including Russia, get it? Iran has to pursue nuclear weapons cause it see's what is happening in Afganistan, but not in the nuclear state of....Pakistan. Bush has proven he will attack, so others prepare

Alex, Milwaukee, USA

thats rediculas, what has the west done? been the victim of terrorism thats all. is that enough? russia herslf has experienced terrorism too. we need to unite and fight our enemy, not show them how uninified we are. our enemy hates us all, why u ask? ask the bombers in iraq who indescriminatly kill, ask the bombers, the 9-11 bombers ect,ect,ect. when will we unite and aim our missles at the right enemy. not each other,remember ,usa, canada,britian,europe russia, and all the world are being attacked by enemies of the world. wake up fellow humans and end this interfighting each other , it serves no purposein defeating our enemies who wants to destroy and take over earth. impose its fanitical ways, free people of the world UNITE.

james, massachuttes, usa

Russia does not support rogue states or support terrorist,infact there having terrorist problems of there own in cheychena which the US supports.Russia is giving iran with a chance of running on its own with close eyes instead of taking them over like america did with iraq when suddam hussien wouldnt get out of the country.and russia as had a long history of invasion of its territory and oppression of its own thats why it unified from hordes of the west from invading them (NATO).i read a poll of czechs and poles about there idea on this missle defense plan and most said they didnt want it.America spent over a trillion on thew nw raptor and billions on a war while russia gives most to its ppl or at least wat it can give.well the balance of power is not imbalanced.with russia,china,india and the middle east most likly there is more strenght in that group of natioins than the west.america is putting russia and china in a corner and soon they will stike and hard.

james, valdosta, USA

it's so funny that the new in thing in the world seems to be putting down America . just remember where most of the people doing the putting down would be if not for that same America from the first to the second world wars. as for Russia it 's govt. is and always has been full of currupt back stabbing schemers. Russia earned it's place as the Enemy of freedom loving people many decades ago . Putin is just a dictator and is trying to set up his own dynasty as the CZARS of old.

joe wagner, franklin, MA.

The current Russian-US quarrel is just Cold War II - the lull in the 90s and early 21st century was a premise to rearm, replenish and rethink the approach towards the existing animosity between the 2 countries. My personal opinion, per US attitude and behaviour to think allcountries, people as inferior, coward,wrong and evil; the world needs another set of superpowers, not only Russia, but also China, Japan, India and Brazil.

Not only will this keep a check on the racist comments and attiutdes stemming from every American today, but will show them that their country is not the only country to be blessed by GOD

Abhishek, Columbus, OH

The West had no issue or problem with Russia while it was crumbling in every imaginable way under Yeltsin.

Now that Russia is economically strong and reasserting its status as the world's biggest country, suddenly there's a million problems.

The only logical conclusion is that the West would only be happy if Russia disappeared.

Now, that would be real democracy at work.

Jonathan Freidman, Valletta, Malta

With the collapse of the Soviet system and its utopian goals, it appears that Russia has backslid into the 19th century. In the absence of a system supposedly based on ideals of elevating and improving the human condition, Russia is basing its 21st century policies on tribalism and the creation of a chiefdom super-state. Feeling threatened by the west and its liberal ideas, the Russian governement behaves like an alcoholic who being unable to win friends, instead tries to bully and intimidate others. I've personally known many Batic people, Czechs, Poles and Armenians. None of them want anything to do with Russia's weird, old-school brand of Byzantine corruption. Unable to face this hurtful truth, the Russians see the defection of the their former "allies" as a conspiracy of the west to steal the love of their "family". Ukraine and Belarus may have long ties to the Russian motherland, but the truth is they would split if there wasn't an AK-47 pointed at them.

Vincent, Los Angeles, California

First of all, If looking at both superpowers, there will always be both an economic and cultural struggle for supremacy. Politics is a means of communication. In reality, the term "Cold War" should be omitted and replaced with something like "Race for Materialism." Like a rival in sports, it lost the prior challenge, and is seizing the opportunity for a chance to run again. The only problem, like history dictates, Russia will always want to participate on its own terms. Same with China. Everyone agrees on materialism, but some parts of the world are just too far apart to feel the same way, but too close to be left alone. The West will have to change its prerogative in order to survive. Let us imbibe some of their culture for the sake of ours.

Eric D., Dallas,

As a resident of the Czech Republic and someone who has dealt with peoples of various eastern european nations, it is clear to me that elitist thinking is entrenched in the Slavic mentality. The Slavic people wear their leadership like a business suit - it's an arbitrary framework for doing "business" in, something they do during the week before returning to their almost pagan and beautiful culture in the evenings and weekends. Corruption is prevalent not because the system is diseased, but because that is the Slavic way of things - they do things through friends and family, and that takes precedence over whatever political elite is in power at the time. It doesn't matter to them who is in power, Hitler, Putin, Bush, whatever...

Frank, Prague,

Mr. Cata;

I think the Russians elites have been doing a pretty good job at 'exploiting' their own people. In fact, they have a far better track record at doing so from the times of the czar to Lenin and Stalin's 'useful idiots'. The difference is that in our Capitalist systems winners and losers are typically created by our own effort, successes, and failures. I think is time us in the West stop blaming ourselves for the self-inflicted wounds of others. We have been infected by guilt, real or perceived, and it is taking us in a path of self destruction. Our culture is slowly committing mass suicide in the name of tolerance and multiculturalism. A French politician once said something along the lines of that ...for the fist time in history a civilization (Western) is blaming itself for being attached by others...

H. Diaz, MIami, Florida/ USA

The Russians have changed, and that change was supposed
to bring them economic benefits. When they instead saw the western 'Capitalists' attempt to exploit their new position, their reaction was, if not understandable, quite logical; "self preservation".
If the western powers and their capitalist masters had only waited until Democracy became entrenched in Russian society then they may have solidified ther victory over Socialism and its Communist manifistations. Instead, in their greed and haste to exploit Russias vast resources, they have given the Communists ample justification to retrench and return to totalitarian rule. What might have been.....?

"Quarterly profits may excite investors and create great headlines, but they can never be the basis for national interests. Never!" If the Western Powers continue to maintain that their 'societies' are better because of the size of their wallets, then they have some further surprises ahead.

Lloyd Cata, New Orleans, LA

Of course Russia should be alarmed by the west's continuing containment and surrounding of her. The U.S views Russia as the greatest

Tyler, Charlottetown, Canada

Poor pitiful Russia. This article hit the nail on the head (with a hammer of course) with the comment, "Not only has Russia lost it's Eastern sattellites but the homeland itself has been dismembered." Of course the Communists were cheated out of world domination by the west. Nevertheless, fear not, there is no need to force the USA, UK and EU to return Ukranians, Latvians, Estonians and Finns and others back to their bloved Russian homeland. Since the Russina's reneged on their earlier deals with the Mongolians I think it's only right to return Russia to their Mongolian masters and restore the Great Khan. Afterall, the Mongolians deserve justice!

Tex Madenfelt, Chandler, AZ

Its entertaining to read the comments of the Americain-bashers. Think what you want, but there is arrogance and stupidity in every culture. Some are brainwashed, some are lazy, some are uneducated, some unimformed. The polititions rarely reflect the views of the vast majority. It never has, and it never will. Putin is no diferrent, niether is Bush, nor will be thier Successors, and so it continues through time awaiting a comglomiration of human values and Respect. An immediate and diliberate transition from sheep to lions, and sleep back into the herd once a revolution passes. Awaiting another tyrant, and, another revolution. Be that by diplomacy and the pen, or the wrath and the sword.
Peace be with all, God forgive us all...

Joseph, Huntington, United States of America

It is very irresponsible to acuse americans of not having reading comprehension and logic skills, but coming from a Canadian it is not a surprise. It appears some Canadians are willing to criticize but not willing to provide an answer or a relevant comment on the situation at hand.
In regards to the article, while it is true that the EU and the USA are dealing with the Chinese and Saudi Arabia; it is also a fact that had Russia gotten away with "winning" the Cold War, neither the Europeans or the Canadians will have the freedom they now enjoy. Let's not loose focus here, if the Russians want to be accepted as a serious world player, it will be in their best interest to play by the rules. The Jamaicans know it: "Work with it Man". . .

Ed, NY/NY,

Putin has less that a year left in office. No big deal. Besides, the companies that run things would never let this get out of hand. Too much money to be lost. (Bad for business)

stan, Vegas, Nevada

Russia has every right to be concerned with the way they are being treated by the west the EU and NATO. Their enemies are all around them. The real threat to them is the U.S. After the cold war ended the US beat Russia if you want to call it a victory. I dont refer to it as one and neither does the States. the truth is the US would love to finish what it started with regards to Russia. Other than maybe China, Russia is the only real country left to challenge for superpower. They now have enormous wealth and a powerful new leader, their existence is still a threat to the US and always will be until they are completely defeated. They have surrounded Russia, and are now planning a "missile defense shield" to ward of threat from "Iran" wink, wink. The Russians aren't stupid, they no this. With the US recent blunders in the mid-east they only have a small window of time left before the sights get retrained on them. This is the new cold war only this one wont be cold for long.

Tyler, Charlottetown, Canada

Narrow minded neo-cons like Steven C could go to you know where as they conveniently ignore the act that it was their country which consistently arming other countries and terrorists groups including bin Laden all in the name of exporting 'democracy' and 'freedom'. Remember Iran-Contra scandal of the '80s , the invasions of Grenada, Panama and other countries? Ask yourself who benefits most from all these arm sales other than the armament industries and their benefactors (the politicians and their cronies). Wish you guys god speed and be on your way to meet your creator soon.

Lemonade, Osaka, Japan

The majority of posters here could use a good course in reading comprehension and logic. It appears that most of these people are Americans. No surprise of course.

chris, Vancouver, Canada

A "superpower" that launches an illegal war on a defenseless country and doesn't have a clue as to how to manage the resulting chaos is an example of cowardice and stupidity.To expect Russia to sit back and watch while warmongering cowards surround them with missiles is confirmation that Americans remain ignorant about Europe ,Asia and the rest of the world.The vast majority of eastern Europeans are comitted to joining the European union because of the prosperity and security it has to offer. It is clear for all to see that the millions wishing to flood into America to work for peanuts are "illegals" from neighbouring Mexico. This is the real testament of a nation's true worth.

Ali Sherwani, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

I agree with the comments and like to see more people standing up to these bullies. Quite rather sad when Americans who think that they have know the whole world in american perspective.

Joseph, Selangor, Malaysia

To GWB in Houston Texas,

I'm an American and I live in Moscow. According to you logic, love it or leave it. I left. When was the last time you looked? I bet never. It's hard to have a world perspective if you never left you small narrow minded world.

Paul, Moscow, Russia

Wow, just another hate America column. Just reaffirms my convictions that many europeans dont have a clue about America or the rest of the real world for that manner. Cowardess, Stupidity, envy or all of the above maybe.

Russia has a very long history of oppression of it's people and others. I am sure not too many are crying about not being under Russia's thumb any longer in Eastern Europe. No one is is to blame for Russia's present positions and past crisis but Russia itself.

Robert, Knoxville, USA

Not bad logic for a bunch of America Hating clods. The true test of a Nation's worth is the flood of people wanting to live there. The true test of a Nation's failure is the flood of people trying to escape it's despotism. Last time I looked America is still where most people want to go & least want to leave. Go figure.

GWB, Houston, Texas

What Bush and the Republican Party has done since Bush the presidency is unforgivable. They have made this world a more unsafe planet. The Republican Party and its fanatical base along with the Jewish Neocons are really responsibe for the current despicable situation in the world today.

Santi, Potomac, Maryland

I'm an American, yet I can see how Russia must feel at this stage in the game. America has done all it can to kill any future rivals, and honestly I don't agree with that. When Russia was a super power and stood up for it's country, it helped keep a balance, but now the U.S. does what it wants with little fear of anyone standing in there way. I love my country but it's not right what happened to the U.S.S.R, because the real losers where the families who have to live in a country that not only lost power but economic stability as well.

B.Davis, Stanton, U.S.A., Ca

Its so easy to cast blame and nit pick but when it comes down to it everyone will be held accountable for their own actions. Stop blaming each other and get past it. It is no, one country's fault, only the fault of those that sit back and do nothing while individuals do wrong. Get off your high horse and look around at what the real issues are. Like the thousands of people that are so poor they have to sell family members on the street, or those that have no food or water to substain their families. I believe that we are focused on the wrong things and to fix them we must first, divert our attention to the things that matter most, like human lives.

katie, towson, md

Mir has nothing to do with this, and if Russia wanted Mir to stay in orbit THEY should have kept it in orbit. On the other hand, the U.S. and Europe could have handled things much better after the Soviet Union fell, but all in all I don't think we did that bad. You have to remember that Russia readily supplies weapons to ALL of the sworn enemies of the U.S. and Europe. And then they say they want to be friends with the U.S. China has no Air Force to speak of except Russian Made Migs, and lets not forget all of the AK-47's, rocket launchers, grenades and landmines that are Russian made and are sold to violent terrorist networks and rogue states worldwide. Russia would like nothing more than to see the dominance of the U.S. fall, so that they may take our place. China wants the same thing. What makes them mad is that the U.S. and Europe continue to play the game better than they do, and we consolidate and solidify our power while they continually try to strip it from us.

Will, Honolulu,

I do believe the US and Europe have played it really smart or else Russia would be still where it was 20 years ago. Russia is not innocent and neither is Europe or US but this is a world about surviving and if I have to choose I rather be USA, to which I'm a citizen of. If Russia had the power and influence the USA has today they would have done much worse then we have, of that I have no doubts.

Fer, Vals, Tampa, USA

It is a tragedy that instead of drawing Russia into the world community, the EU and the US have chosen instead to poke it in the eye time after time. How much would it have cost to keep Mir in orbit? It would have been a pittance, but the old cold warriors want to make sure that Russia understands that it's down. Little, simple things would have sufficed to keep Russia in the orbit of the western world, but instead it's rebuffed and badgered. No surprise that people get testy and start feeling unwanted. Really stupid stuff. Years from now, historians will remember this time as a tragic missed opportunity.

R A Bravo, Albuquerque, USA

Shorten the comments, identify what is wrong , propose feasible solution/s

antonio pinchinat, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, West Indies

Why does everybody say that Russia supports Iran? Yes there are russian engineers in iran but there not there to build nuclear missles. Do you really think Russia wants a country like Iran to have nuclear missles. I dont think so.I think Russia is just trying to keep a real close eye on whats going on in Iran. And why should Russia make an enemy of Iran like U.S. does with the world. Russia plays it smart unlike the US.

Val, Glenade,

What really stinks about this world is that a vast majority of people, regardless of nationality, would just enjoy having a good life where one could raise their children, have a good decent job, and live in peace and the few evil individuals in this world gain power and ruin it for everyone. Bush and Putin aren't fighting for their people, they are fighting for the own personal gains and it depresses me to see that we people are powerless to do anything about it.

Corey, Stanford, Ky, USA

Would the USA stand by and let another country tell it what to do? What if one country demanded the USA to give california to the Spanish people? Would the american people sit back and say "oh, thats okay...take it????" I don't understand how one country can tell another country what to do. The USA got rid of the majority of Serbs in Kosovo. Did they even mention once that Bin Ladin was involved since his wife is from that area? There are two sides to every story and I fear that the truth has been a little lopsided. Not to say that the Serbs didn't commit war crimes, but one also has to remember that Albanians did too. Putin I congradulate you on holding your ground against the mighty power of the west.

Lynn, Westfield, Ma, USA

Mr.Kaletsky is trying to brainwash (may be not intentionally)
Western Europeans and Americans with traditionally Russian brainwashing rhetoric.
As a matter of fact Russians are lazy to work as hard as europeans and Americans in order to advance their lives.
Instead They(Russians) are trying to consolidate STATE Power-Energy,Military and being political adventures trying to support Iran,North Korea,Venesuella etc.,playing games with India,China instead of comprehendig the realities of todays conected world and try to find a place for RUSSIA as a COMPETITOR to Western Contries ,USA but Not as an ENEMY

Ex.Soviet citizen
Mike from Los Angeles,USA

Mike, Los Angeles, USA/California

Ukraine, which in Russian means "borderland" has no long national history. Ukraine history is Russian history. The "Annexation" of Galicia, which historically has been part of Poland and the Austrian-Hungarian empire brought a western "Catholic" population into the Ukraine Soviet. These people are the ones who most clamor for independence. The attempted genocide that Stalin and those with a desire for vengence inflicted on the Kulaks and other peoples there also contributed for a desire to be free from Kremlin control.
The whole history of Ukraine (ex Galicia) is one where Russians fled north to avoid the Mongols and later of Russians looking for freedom from Czarist rule - moving into the Borderland where ther was no Czarist influence.
This independence does not mean that Ukrainians, especially east of the Dneiper are not Russians.
My grandparents emigrated from Vinnitsya and consdered themselves Russians and stated that there was no sense of Ukrainian nationalism.

Mike Y, Philadelphia,

Democracy, freedom of speech, human rights, respect for 'the rule of law', respect for international conventions and territorial integrity of other nations.....This are the basis for which a government (not necessarily its citizens!) should be judged.

Democracy: Right of the people to determine who rules them and to rule themselves. So Palestinians elected their government (Hamas) and the U.S redefines democracy as "right of the people to rule themselves, by a party of our (U.S) choice.
So, its so amusing when "the Kettle" starts saying "the Pot" is black!
The world has actually been endangered since the end of the cold war since the world lost the advantage of the "balance of terror" that existed before and we now have one bully-super power who thinks its it god-ordained right to direct and impose its value on others. Absolutely power, indeed corrupts absolutely. One thing is, the U.S is actually not bothered about how the rest of humans feel about its behaviour...............

Deji, Lagos, Nigeria

Some people have tried to defend this missile shield as a purely defensive technology, and therefore, without any offensive implications. That's not exactly correct. This missile shield will negate the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction (by neutralizing the ability of Russia to respond with her own nuclear attack in case she were attacked with nuclear weapons), which was a fundamental factor in keeping both the US and Soviet nuclear missiles in their silos during the Cold War. Once this missile shield is in place, in case the US attacked Russia with nuclear weapons, Russia would not be able to respond. Therefore, this missile shield does constitute an offensive capability (or at least one part of an offensive capability). One of the posters thinks that this is nothing like Cuba. As a matter of fact, it is exactly like Cuba. Both developments sought to remove the capability of the opponent to respond; I don't blame the Russians for being uncomfortable with this development.

Umar Farooq Khawaja, Huntingdon, UK

Funny how the media plays such a key role in all of this. Remember the slogan of the 60's "Question Authority!". Today's should be "Question the Media!". Seriously folks, look behind the curtain and see who has their hands on those controls. Then ask yourselves, is what I am reading in these headlines or hearing in these 15 second sound bites the whole story or anything remotely close to the truth?

The media loves to stir it up because it sells headlines/buys more eyeballs/eardrums They are in business to line their pockets and please the analysts with their quarterly earnings reports. I have never seen the media more into opinion and entertainment and less about reporting the news than today. When Paris Hilton, who has done nothing and has absolutely zero talent eclipses far more important stories of the day, you kind of get the drift of today's world media. Dig a little deeper folks & pls stop apologizing for how others perceive actions beyond your control. It's spineless

Chris, Aurora, IL

You say that the loss of Ukraine and Belarus has been "emotionally wrenching" to Russians. Would it have happened if the citizens of those areas had not been terrorized for generations by prior Russian governments? Forced collectivization and programatic mass starvation are not soon forgotten. As for the former "Eastern Block" countries, they actively sought EU and Nato membership because they desperately needed to expand their economies and, more importantly, they were afraid. More than one of them had been subject to invasion by Russia when they had previously attempted to establish free societies. Their fear is now being confirmed in the most concrete terms as Russia returns to a totalitarian society and a command economy. Those who value Russia as a people with a courageous heritage and a strong intellectual tradition, as I do, pray for the Russian people to look in the mirror and see themselves and their history in a bright and objective light, and to take a path to freedom.

Harry, Wilton, Connecticut

this column is sheer nonsense. russia doesn't like the u.s. military in eastern europe because russia doesn't accept that eastern european people should be free. the reasons russia is willing to point missiles at western europe are based in solid, historical calculations : namely, that western europe doesn't care about the freedom of eastern europe either and is more than willing to throw it to the russians.

Jason Keuter, Abodeen,

Oh, and one more thing.

To Rob from Dallas: Americans can't claim to be absolved of their government's actions. That is because it is a democracy (or at least purported to be one). In a democracy, the underlying assumption is that people choose their representatives and then those representatives carry out the people's will. Therefore, whatever the US Government's actions are, they are indeed sanctioned by the American people because these very people voted for this government-- twice, incidentally.

Umar Farooq Khawaja, Huntingdon, UK

As the author started this piece with "Know your enemy, a phrase coined by Sun Tzu, the Chinese military strategist, 2,000 years ago, is even more critical in diplomacy than it is in warfare" , I like to point out what follows "Know your enemy", is "Know yourself" which is of equal strategic importance!
I contend that Soviet reformist leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev etc., never really "know" USSR itself, on top of not knowing fully its "enemy". USSR leaders should have known, & Russian leaders now should know itself better to know it will never be accepted by NATO or the West WHATEVER they do as USSR was or Russia is not a "Poland class", instead it is a large enough separate "Pole". It will always be, like China, regarded as both a threat and an opportunity. It was mainly that naive Russian leaders not knowing itself which led to policies precipitating its breakup, and disillusionment with the West. It is no fault of the West, it is USSR/Russian's own fault for not knowing itself.

Victor Huang, Fremont, U.S.A./California

Mr Putin is just trying to stay in power using this latest 'crisis'. Russian can point their missiles at EU in a moments notice if needed anyway. The missiles should go in to protect EU from ANY danger to them. **The Russians need to get on board and be part of the team**. There is a reason they are NOT part of NATO and up for EU membership. Its also obvious their next move will be to squeeze EU via its oil/gas supplies. Russia will always use this card to get attention. I actually have NO problem with this. It allows for some give and take to reach 'agreements'. Russian's as part of the EU will benefit themselves greatly and not diminish them at all. They have so many positive things to give (and get). IF Mr Putin relinquishes power when his time is up, then this should be EU and USA's signal that Russia is ready to join the team.

Ken Q, New York, NY

America, America know who your dealing with. Know your
"ally" or enemy before teasing it. Russia is a superpower and has the capablility of smashing a mighty nation, one just like America. Europe and America are the ones who will not start the Cold War again, but the next WWIII. Like somebody said "can't we just all get along"!!!

Ismael, Cartersville, Ga,

Well...it's a little different than Cuba. Cuba was an offensive nuclear missile battery that would obliterate North America. The American system is allegedly a defensive anti-missile system.

Also, I take exception to the broad brush painitng of 'The American People'. Our leadership is incompetent, arrogant, and dangerously myopic. The majority of our people are not this way. We realize how boorish we look, and it pains us. But we have no voice. George Bush is out of control, and out of touch. Imcompetence has marred his administration beyond belief. The vast majority of the American people are extremely unhappy with the direction of our country.

Rob, Dallas, Texas

Can't we all just get along, everything stated here are just politics.

Andre, New York/New York,

American ignorance and pretentse that they always know everything and are always right and everyone else is always wrong is unbelieveable. It is sad to see a peope, i.e. Americans, so one-track minded and so myopic. When Russian put missiles in Cuba what was the reaction of the american people?? and, what makes americans think Russia do not have the right to react the same way?? Well, it is good for the goose but not good for the gander, i say. The double standards in american politics is another issue: trade with China and even grant her Most Favored Trading nations status but enforce an embargo against Cuba. Americans have never had the courage to admiit that the invasion of Iraq was a total mistake and that it was carried out under a clear and undeniable fabrication of facts. My country, right or wrong. In the US if or when you criticise the war in Iraq, you are branded a traitor. Have the American people ever really said "sorry, we are wrong" before??

john k, new york, New York, NY

Puting up amissile defence shield in eastern europe is not necessary.Infact even N/korea has always argued that it's pursuing of nuclear teeth is in order to increase its detterence against apossible attack from America.Had it not been for Americans failure to mind their own bussines Iran would be quiet.The best thing for Russia would to start opposing America at every corner .instead of playing cool they could also do things like add fuel to the iraq insurgency,arm the taliban with state of the art surface to air missiles to bring down a few NATO aircraft.......

Litambo, Mongu, Zambia

Wow, some great read with some great input from person's and perspective's from other countries...I'd like to think we could all just get along, however it's obvious our leader's need to understand each other's dilemna and make an effort to stop what each other consider aggresive actions...I as a citizen certainly do not want to see another Cold War start up, but neither do I appreciate being called a tyranical society...As an American, we are a model society; are we perfect, no...However don't scapegoat American's for having the cojones to lead campagn's against genocide, tyrany, and old world thinking...We'll continue to make mistakes in history, but our heart still remain trying to make this world a better place...You can second guess American's all you want, but the modern world enjoy's it's freedom to make these blogs possible by the very same America the world has made a popular sport of beating up on...

Alex C, Texas, USA

i guess that is why vlad threatened europe with the threat of targeting them. it is crazy to thunk the USA is on some kind of world romp to envelope everything. the idea of some form of democracy is a dream 99% of the world wants. it is the crazed power hungry leaders/systems that are the cause of most dissent. hence the fall of the berlin wall. and besides, russia could fire a missel at a moments notice and target anywhere it wants. the russian gov. needs an enemy to distract from its power grab and nationalization of its infrastructure. russia is not he enemy of the USA and no country of the world is, only some of its leaders who revel in the hate they pronounce for gw bush. go world peace.

scott hipsher, KNOXVILLE, TN.

Dmitriy, you must love Russia very much to say such things. Don't let us keep you from your love. Please go back any time you like. I'm sure they've missed you. We won't stop you, really. Go back to that tiny little apartment with no heat, go back to the reality of being arrested and held for any reason, nevermind the beatings you'll receive in jail either. I can see why this country is so superior to the US. It must kill you to be living in comfy Tampa, FL.

Joe Bloe, Los Angeles, CA

Interceptor missles...hahaa...Yea...I figured..American from Virginia.....tell me ...do you really believe your rhetoric?
If a missle can be fired....can't any other missle be mounted and fired as well...ALSO...it has been scientifically proven that those systems are VERY VERY VERY INACCURATE and UNRELIABLE, in terms of taking an ICBM down...
Don't be naive.....
Article was very well written from a different perspective than most of us are use to hearing or reading about....
All countries have their political interest in mind, so why should we , in the interest of objective fairness, approve one nation's imperialistic policies and deny political aspirations of others....Welcome to the world of Politics...

Armin, Ottawa, Canada

Americans must first and foremost learn how to mind their own business and concentrate on domestic issues rather than be a plug in every single barrel out there in the world. Intervention, mentoring, instigation, encroachment and bullishness are the words that fully describe the attitude of the U.S around the world. And Europeans meanwhile have the double standards. For them its like trying to sit on two chairs at the same time without falling: with the main objectives to undermine a U.S. currency with the strength of a Euro and keep slinking along like a coward to dance to the Nato flute. I say you got a master and a slave that want to try to grapple with a Russian bear. Well, just look back in history. The mongols, the Turks, the French with Napoleon, the Germans with Hitler had all aspired to vanquish and defeat Russia, albeit they all failed. The same history will repeat itself with the U.S.-Nato alliance because of ignorance of the U.S. and the puppetry of Europe.

Dmitriy O., Tampa Bay, Florida

Americans must first and foremost learn how to mind their own business and concentrate on domestic issues rather than be a plug in every single barrel out there in the world. Intervention, mentoring, instigation, encroachment and bullishness are the words that fully describe the attitude of the U.S around the world. And Europeans meanwhile have the double standards. For them its like trying to sit on two chairs at the same time without falling: with the main objectives to undermine a U.S. currency with the strength of a Euro and keep slinking along like a coward to dance to the Nato flute. I say you got a master and a slave that want to try to grapple with a Russian bear. Well, just look back in history. The mongols, the Turks, the French with Napoleon, the Germans with Hitler had all aspired to vanquish and defeat Russia, albeit they all failed. The same history will repeat itself with the U.S.-Nato alliance at the gates of Russia..

Dmitriy O., Tampa, Florida

Here we go again with European ignorance. Countdown People until the US has to save Europe's ungratefull hide again.

cliff, Kennesaw, Ga

instead of asking how the russians feel about ukranian independence how about asking the ukranians how they feel about ukranian independence. by the way, the missles that will be installed in poland and the czech republic are interceptor missles, that means ground to air. these are not icbms with nuclear capabilities people. they are purely defensive, meant to intercept incoming missiles that may in fact be icbms with nuclear capabilities.

phil, westover, west virginia

Yes, Mr. Kaletsky, let's appease Putin. Give him his way, because he's feeling lonely and afraid. Let his new found friends in Iran have an unopposed pathway to Europe and the US. Perhaps your warm and fuzzy feelings for Russia will keep you and your European friends warm when Putin and his successors shut off the gas in the winter when you finally reach the limit of caving into his demands.

John, Washington, DC

That sounds like Americans. Blamig another country for what we are doing. We have put missles around Russa and have gone there and inriched ouselves while they starved. Lets see how it would be if we were in there shoes. First, lets seperate Texas and California and make them seperate states. Then lets put Russian missles in Cuba, Mexico and Canada. Then Lets take most of the business away from us and give them to the Russians. Now, wouldn't you be unhappy. Thats how it is.

William C. Eggers, Winterset, Iowa

Another example of Mr. Kaletsky's thoughtfulness and originality, which is why I look forward to Thursdays as the one day when I'll bother to read The Times.

Samuel, New York, New York

Never mind that Russia has been blackmailing all of Europe over natural gas. Never mind the horrific abuses they committed over 2 wars in Chechyna that far outweigh any abuses commited by the United States in Iraq. Never mind the complete muzzling of the Russian media and authoritarian control by Mr. Putin. Let's just ignore all of that and go back to the Cold War thinking so popular among academics and others on the Left. Let's view Russia and the West as morally equivalent entities, when in fact any objective view would show that Russia's abuses far outweigh abuses by the United States or the West in general. The Left has a long record of doing this, going back to the early 1930s when they deliberately ignored Stalin's terror famine that killed 5 million Ukranians, instead writing about what a wonderful utopia the Soviet Union was at that time.

Eric, Riverside, IL

The article presented is mostly biased. The view of the people in the US and the view of the people in Russia may differ, but who is to say, unless of course you are a Russian politic, that they are so different as to be complete enemies? I believe that Russia (speaking in terms of Putin) is making attempts to keep peace. That means, no Cold War, no hositilities. Read real news. Putin and Bush are trying to keep more men from needlessly dying. Neither president can be ridiculed for doing their best. They are human. So are we.

Jessica, Greensboro, NC

For the first time I came across the article which contained the concept close to reality. It is amazing to find such a material in such a prominent mass media which you can find in some Russian radical newspapers. You will say "no'!
Come to Russia and view how the country looks from inside.
What actually surprises me is that there are so many comments coming from Russia in good English.
We can communicate and freely exchange with what we think.
Let`s proceed this way. Rather than to scare each other.

Victor, Moscow, Russia

Russia must have been doing something wrong, if nobody wants to be under their influence. Unfortunately russians do not see it that way. What about total dependence on Western goods etc. They sell oil thanks to the Western partners. They like their cars to be western and their buildings to be build to western standards. If the West will start living (laws, media etc.) like Russia now it will throw it right to the Middle Ages. (Russian media and majority of Russians treat all other nations as something very inferior to the genetic level) (they probably forgot Nazis and ideology) Russia deserves to be treated as they are until they can adjust to western world and values.

Grisha, london,

When the US reinstates habeas corpus, rips up the so-called "patriot act" (small letters), closes gulag guantanamo, extracts itself from Mr Bush's personal oil field in Iraq then then it can talk about freedom, democracy or whatever. Until then they should shut up or start a comedy show.
I believe that Mr Putin, unlike Mr Bush in 2000,actually became President with a majority of votes. Looks like Russian democracy works better or just works.
Bush needs reminding again that he is only President of the US not World Dictator.

Jeff Larsen, Chch, NZ

The more we think things change, the more they stay the same. They are all politicians. And they are playing politics. Whether U.S. or Russian, European or wherever. The only way this will end is when ordinary people won't stand for it anymore.

Tom, New Hampshire,

Stop inviting the russians to return their missiles to Cuba!
wrote H.Bernaerts from Philipsburg.

Absolutely right! How can you, i mean the people who wrote here their comments, evaluate the chance of standing russian deffense missiles on Cuba? Not many - 10 for example. Just imagine that its not attacking missiles, its only for deffense purpouses. And strategic radar in Mexico? Sure, not for scaning missiles starts from US bases, but for Pakistanian attack for example. Sure, it won't break strategic balance - because we are friends forever. Russia and Europe, Russia and North America. Ofcourse that missiles will never fly to US territory. Don't worry - there are no reasons for that. We are together against our common enemy - terrorists. I'd like to ask americans - will you like that? I think - no... And the last - everything in our life has the reasons and the its results.
Sorry for mistakes.

Dmitry , Moscow, Russia

The author seems to have done a good job of describing what many Russians have felt since the 1990s. The breakup of the Russian empire in 1991 was sudden and painful and led to the same kind of nationalist backlash, historical revisionism and neo-imperial fantasies that we saw in Germany in the 1920-1930s and France in the 1960s. Hopefully, Russia's case will be eventually closer to France's than Germany's, but things do not look particularly promising at the moment.

Alex Mikhaylov, Denver, Colorado, US

It looks like nothing to add after all of those comments.
But I want to rise point about the democracy and the freedom of speech. Why people on the west think that we have a problems with that more than you do?
I'm able to say and think (and vote) as I want. Is it non democratic? Human rights: I agree that we have some problems, but hysteria of "democratic opposition" like Garry Kasparov, does not make sense for me (IMHO certainly). When neonazi come on the streets and say: Russia for Russians - is it opposition or xenophobic instigator? Does somebody whatch Russian channels (REN-TV for exmpl)? Try once and you will be surprised.

I'm really glad to read this very good article and the great comments, I thank all of you for honest opinions.

P.S. Sorry, for my poor English and spelling... :)

Konstantin, Vladivostok, Russia

I agree with the article except that President Bush Sr did not encourage the dissolution of the USSR. He made his infamous " Chicken Kiev" Speech in effect telling Ukranians. Georgians. etc to sign the new Union treaty Gorbachev proposed.

James Varela, Sarasota, USA

The USA had your chance - in the time of 1991 to 2005 they were the superpower. And which they have reached? What did they make with that for unique chance? Did the world become better? The Russians were away - exeptionally they did not disturb. Am I to enumerate perhaps rather here, how much meal the USA other countries to have attacked? Why probably doesn't the majority of humans think capable of to the USA? The USA are now in that absolute image hole, (contrary to US Army - those is the strongest in the world). Please, don't insult more Iranier, Russians Venezolaner, Kubaner, Libyern (oh no - those are again friends) . Please turn out TV Set and turn on the head. By the way, after the World War 62 years are past and after that cold war 16 - which makes actually US Army in Germany and Japan? Do mornings attack the Russians the Germans or China Japan?

Michael Stich, Wiesbaden, Germany

Putin and Russia became the enemy of the US (and of its servants. The Eastern European countries already hated Russia and being in the EU gives them a chance to get even.) when Russia opposed the invasion and occupation of Iraq and the UN prepwork for attacking Iran. Pure and simple, the Bushites will not tolerate opposition from other countries without using their control of the newsmedia and international organizations to damage, insult, and threaten. What is the most painful to me is to see governments that I usually consider civilized (not the UK under Blair) being blind to the torture, mass murder (using aircraft, artillery, etc. since doing it at a distance allows denial.) , concentration camps, and cancellation of international law (i.e., standard Israeli methods) that are now also standard procedures for the US government.

Amvet

hugh Williams, Frankfurt,

Mr Putin is obviosly one of Russia's strongest leaders, and no need to talk about New Great Enemies. Russian sitizens don't regard West as a hostile world. Russia wiil remain strong-minded and firm even after Mr. Putin's resignation.
What about Estonia, they had right to remove the Monument, but why make fuss of it? they certainly provoked Russia to answer, and Russia did. Russian public opinion is strongly against Estonia now, and this's not a game.

Elena, Kasan, Russia

Stop inviting the russians to return their missiles to Cuba !

H.Bernaerts, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (N.A.)

It is not accurate to say the USA encouraged the disolution of the Soviet Union, although we should have. The USSR was an empire built on force, and many of its subjects yearned for independence. I do agree that this propsed missle defense system is an unnecessary provocation, and that NATO should invite Russia in.

Dennis Campbell, Fairfax, VA, USA

Mr. Kaletsky's comments regarding the concept of Ukrainian nationality accurately, but inappropriately, reflect a systematic chauvinism in Russian perceptions. Ukrainians boast a long and proud history of individual cultural and lingustic identity, albeit not of modern statehood. The regrettable fact that Russians might generally perceive Ukraine as a natural part of their geography does not mean that it should have remained so, in any objective sense. The appeasement of Russian chauvanism, in the interests of near-term geopolitical goodwill, would not have been an appropriate reason to disregard (let alone suppress) the desire of the majority of 50 million Ukrainian nationals for independence. Russian resentment stemming from the existence of Ukrainian statehood is not an issue for which the West should accept blame; Russian perception is a Russian problem.

Anonymous, Houston, USA

Oh dear, Cold War all over again in the words of the author of this article - Russia and Europe, Russia and NATO- encroachment on territory. Never mind that the people who live in these territories (Belarus apart) don't want to be in Russia's sphere of influence. Why bother about them. Not relevant here at all.

Anna Cohen, London,

Many good comments. Pavel, from Rostov, you make much sense. I think it's wonderful that interested people from all over the world can participate in such on-line discussions. I hope it is the wave of the future everywhere in the world, allowing concerned citizens of all countries to share ideas and experiences. Thank you!

James, Jacksonville, Illinois U. S.

The West is starting the Cold War? No, Anatole, Russia launched a military attack on a NATO member, Estonia. It was totally unprovoked. All the sovereign government of Estonia did was move a statue celebrating the enslavement of Estonia by Stalin to a military cemetery. And the West, far from starting the Cold War, hasn't even noticed it yet. We are still waiting for a response from NATO to this attack.

Quentin Langley, Woking, UK

As usual, Mr Kaletsky introduces a sensible warning or point of view to issues on which the public are confused.

The trouble is, not enough people know about the history of relations between the West and Russia, and see why Russia is the way it is. It´s easy for the Western press to depict Russia as a bad guy. Russia has always needed strong leaders, hard men, to hold together. They don´t make an attractive bunch, from Ivan the Terrible to Putin by way of Joe Stalin. And certainly, Russia does not have clean hands, as China does not, America´s big buddy these days.

This makes it easy for the Westerners to pursue their own expansion under a cloak of democracy at Russia´s expense, while pointing to Russia and saying, "See, look at the bad guy!"

Western hypocrisy works easily in an awareness-starved Western mass culture, plugged into iPods and shopping malls. How many care to look into Western friendship with China while blowing the whistle on Russia, for example?

A L Sen, Mijas, Spain

Maybe this could be the opportunity for the Europeans to start freeing themselvs from the Russian gasoducts. Despite its commitment for everything green, Germany has an unfortunate situation, the result of a mixture of Schröder-Putin friendship (which brought the former Kanzler a fat 1 milion/year salary at a Russian natural gas company) and Green hypocrisy. Burning Russian gas while closing down nuclear power plants is not the best way to tackle climate change.

Rick, Hannover, Germany

As a humble observer I see no sign of a new Cold War.
Almost every week I read of someone here, top politician, sportsman or whatever, who should know better, making a daft comment which they later retract or go awfully silent about - and these are people who have grown up with freedom of speech: there is no one prominent from the former Soviet Union old enough to have that advantage.
When Putin said he'd turn his missiles back on Europe, my heart didn't skip a beat; but it did in the Cuba Missile crisis years ago when it could all have happened.
Of course the West is suspicious of Russia today - I believe there are a few "missing" scientists, and "unaccounted" materials from those days too - who knows where they have landed up? - maybe in London last year, for example.
You might also consider the so-called "oligarchs" - I have nothing personal against them, but it does appear that an awfully small number of people ended up mega-rich, and over here.

MikeM, St. Albans, England

What planet are you people on?!?!?! I think what ever our political stand points and differences we can all agree that threatening nuclear war is abhorant , but let us be clear there are now only THREE nations on Earth that are currently threatening this. North Korea against....well anyone, Iran against Israel and now apparently Russia against Europe. The US, however you may view it is by no means a nuclear threat except in response to these THREE countries, and most probably not even then.

Iran may one day through its democratic means regain sane leadership, N.Korea is a disgraceful dictatorship but is showing signs of improvement, but i fear Russia is the only nation going backwards in the struggle for democracy out of these nuclear threats.

Ben Pritchard, Bristol,

The article raises some valid points, and I agree it is wise for the people to understand how Russians perceive themselves as well as the west.

But, I find it very hard to understand why Russians are viewing this as the infancy of a second cold war. As an American I can state with certainty that no one here has feared Russia for quite some time. Americans do not fear Russian missles. We do fear a missle flying out of a rogue state at us or one of our allies... a valid fear.

The shield is not to intimidate Russia. And for Putin to threaten targeting European cities is highly irresponsible if not frightening. Statements like this seem to be coming from a government that is lamenting its former role on the world stage and nothing more. American agreement to discuss Azerbiajan as an alternate location confirm the shields true intent. Do Russians feel American attention validates their potency? Rhetoric from the East almost sounds like they want a cold war. We do not.

Flynn, Houston, Texas / USA

He that fears every bush must never go a-birding

why west is afraid Russia? why does west declaire russia as an enemy?

absolutely agree with autor that US and EU didn't do anything to make Russia their friend while soviet collapsed.

and now in order to turn public's attention out from their mistakes US and EU focuse on an "enemie".

Believe me, nobody here in russia really cares what Bush or Merkel or Sarcozi think about russia. People in russia mostly care about a bread for tomorrow (I am not talking about big cities). aver 30% of population live below the poverty line. And goverment tries to do something for the people.

relax guys, we no ambitions to win all hearts! we are not your enemie! we rather be your friend

Karen, Moscow, Russia

I really like the pressure the Bush administration is putting on Russia. The Russians are the ones building nuclear reactors in Iran. Russia also chooses to be weak in admonishishing Iran for building nukes. Bush is making it harder for Russia to continue it's support of Iran.

James, Tampa, USA/FL

Writing that Russia is entitled to be angry over Ukraine or Caucasus states fight for independence is simply wrong. These countries have right to be ruled in their own way without Russian telling them what to do like during infamous Soviet regime.

To Pavel from St. Petersburg - Mr Putin isn't George Washington of Russia. The reason is simple- there is no freedom or democracy in Russia. And for me it's fine - as long as Russians seem to like it and as long as they are not trying to impose their rule to other countries.

Agnes, Wroclaw, Poland

Guys, I`m russian and I have three questions to west. Simple questions, if look from here...

1) Why you so need an enemy in face of our "weird" country?
2) Why western leaders make emphasaizings about human rights here? Except for bribes for certain burocrats (as everywhere all over the world except few countries) and for road police (that`s really a shame) normal person don`t face with any other violations on it`s rights. Chechens? They`ve declared a war, and it was their choice. So, forget them. Although, nowadays they rebuild their autonomy republic and it`s becoming better and better.
3) Why russians still can`t travel and live in Europe and other countries without flippin visas, when even really poor romanians (where Borat was filmed) have joined the EU. It`s discrimination. To abolish visas (not borders, because of a lot of chinese, koreanese etc) in next two-three years must be a best way to get closer our civilisations.

Ivan, naturally!, St. Petersburg, Russian Empire

I seem to remember about 2 years or so ago... Mr. Putin was making noise about rebuilding a grand Russian army... long before there was any talk of anti missle sights in Eastern Europe. Mr. Putin has never been about democratic reforms... just building his own popularity/position so he can talk about a grand Soviet... er Russian army. In a country that is still so behind the curve for industrial and economic development... how can he possibly justify this? Sounds more like Kim Jong Il than Ghandi

Robert, Gurnee, IL

The "peoples" of Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus were "given" independence by three drunken leaders at a dacha near Minsk in 1991. I always find it disingenuous of those who sent Black and Tans to Ireland, torturers to Algeria, and napalm to South Vietnam to wax so righteous about Hungary and Prague, or get so riled when Cuba put Soviet missiles on the doorstep of an invading power 90 miles away.

Lionel Collins, Shreveport, Louisiana USA

It is interesting that some ex-soviet states, seem to be reconsidering their anti-Russian sentiments.
For many, the promised benefits of unrestrained capitlaism have simply failed to materialise and they are beginning to look enviously back towards their eastern borders.
Those with oil reserves in particular, have seen what has happened to so many countries "blessed" with the US's most coveted resource and are looking towards Russia for protection. Tartarstan's voluntary reintegration was driven in part by their fear of the US exceeding that of post Glasnost Russia.

Gregory Bradley, Logan, Australia

The Cold War never stopped. Democracy, human rights, free economic trade - these are all tools for West (so-called Golden Billion) to push its interests everywhere in the world. US democracy is not real, there are two parties that merely disagree on the issue of abortion. Go to wikipedia and see a list of wars that US led in the last and this century - doesn't matter, democrats or republicans follow the same course. US does what's best for its interest and it stops at nothing. Clinton, a "democrat" bombed Yugoslavia (NATO, no UN participation), Bush invaded Iraq... People, do you honestly believe, US will stop? Next target is Iran and I'm afraid Russia could be next after that. "Democratic" mass media can justify anything these days and so everybody will think it's the "right" war. If not, current presidents, be it Hillary or anybody else, still will pursue their aggressive politics. When there were two superpowers, US and USSR, there was at least some sort of balance. Now US rules.

Alexander Gemuenden, Frankfurt/M., Germany

Mr. Kaletsky should first read a bit of history Poland and Hungary were never the soviet union republics, except Baltic states.
Russia has the right to protect itself and pursue its interests. Particularly, the oil and mineral resources are the strategic property of only russian people and nobody has a right to criticize Russia of no share use of it.

Anna, Regina, Canada

"Western politicians may ridicule such fantasies as Russian nationalist paranoia." Umm - the ridicule is based in reality. European leftists continue to play the appeasement game and continue to be on the wrong side of history. After reading all the incredibly stupid criticism over the past few days in these pages of how Bush is trying to create another Cold War where are the apologies now that its clear Putin is manipulating the situation to appear "strong" to his paranoid populace? (The US strongly agreed to consider Putin’s suggestion to moving the system to Azerbeijian today). There will be no apologies because it doesn’t fit it in with the European Left's own paranoid fantasies which can be summed up as follows; US, bad. Any despots who criticize the US, Good. When will you all grow up?

Al, NY, NY

Excellent article. Now can we have some honesty for the reasons why 9/11 happened?

I suggest readers (particularly those in the US of A) go google "Blowback" by Chalmers Johnson

Tom Anderson, London, UK

Great article, I agree with Benzo The Times really is getting good its much better than the Guardian for example.

The rationale that Bush uses for the shield could easily be reversed with Russia basing a shield in Cuba to protect against rogue latin American states. The shield is pure hypocracy, it is aggressive sabre rattling and I support Russia 100% on this matter only. Bush seems to be hell bent on WW3 at any cost, he is much more dangerous and much less intelligent than Hitler. What a great leader for the supposed free world.

James Hildean, Lymington,

And they have the most beautiful women!

Chie, Tokyo, Japan

Mr. Kaletsky forgets that these former Soviet states and satellite countries have good reason to seek shelter in the EU and NATO. After decades of Soviet misrule they rather seek cooperation with the west. The writer paints these events as some kind of natural disaster brought upon Russia. It is not. The Soviet administration killed and oppressed tens of millions of completely innocent people at home and abroad. These people still hate Russia for it. It is their right . If Russia wants to make friends in the world she must show true cooperation and respect towards her new neighbours great and small. Russia has not put in the effort. She´ll be welcome when she does.

daniel, kimito, finland

This is the same apologism which justified the Soviet Empire during the Cold War - that "Mother Russia" needs a shield between itself - ie. Eastern Europe - in order to prevent "agression" in the future.

Conspicuously not mentioned is the behaviour toward Russia in its "near abroad", the cutting off of energy to its former colonies, the cyber-attacks, the elimination and oppression of vocal opponents of the regime, etc.

Putin and Chavez, the era's current petro-thugs, which see their power greatly diminished when oil prices go down eventually or sooner...

R.B. Glennie, Ottawa, Ontario

Russians may feel "under threat" from the West now, but we were threatened by Russia for more than forty years. Russia had shown in its conquest of Eastern Europe in the forties that it was prepared to extend communism by force of arms and it was obvious that its favoured secure frontier would have been the Atlantic Ocean. It is not surprising that the E.U. was reluctant to embrace Russia when communism collapsed, and even less surprising when one considers the immense problems that our former enemy faced then and still faces.
That said, American policy towards Russia, as elsewhere in the world, has been disastrous.

laurie, Tunbridge Wells,

A refreshing counterpoint to the recieved view.
But I would ask another question? Did the cold war ever end - did Russia ever stop treating democratization globally as the disguise for American ascendancy? Or obstructing it (except often for lack of funds).
The West did wait and hope the Russians would lose thier obstructionism and resentfulness (there from the start not accumulated by NATO's advance) but there never was any sign. And with Putin and the ascendency of the spies blaming external forces for the failure of the Russian leadership to do anything effective about the dying population, crime and failing infrastructure and social conditions is the first, last and only option.
This viewpoint is a Kremlin apologia I fear.
Many countries have lost thier empires and when there is a Russian leader that takes responsibility for Russias problems instead appropriating blame Russia will be on it's way to recovery of it's status of a enviable and important nation. We wait and hope.

Daniel, Sydney, australia

AMERICA AND RUSSIA NEED TO BACK DOWN!

It is not only Russia that are causing this new row escalating over Europe, but also the Americans. This row was caused by the decission of America to locate new missile defence systems throughout Eastern Europe. But are these really needed?
They claim to be defending themselves against possible nuclear attack from Iran. This is where i have to agree with Putin; Iran don't even have the nuclear capability yet not to mention a missile that even ranges that far.
Russia are also in the wrong, making silly and futile attempts to scare America.Putin's remarks, threatening to aim his missiles at Europe. These were totally unnessecery.
It seems that the want of both nations to be the most dominant nations in the world is reulting in this argument more and more ressembling that of the Cold War. These countries are just trying to assert their authority by use of such methods and are working to intimidate each other and other threats from nations,

Damie Jarrett, Barrow-upon-Humber, North Lincolnshire

I truly wish more people would make mention that this so-called missile shield President Bush insists upon installing in Europe doesn't even work. Uncounted billions of tax dollars have been spent trying to make these ridiculous contraptions work and all tests of the system have failed. Moreover, the Soviet physicist Andrei Sakharov told Premier Gorbachev in 1986 that any ABM missile shield the Americans devised could be overwhelmed by firing decoys. Twenty years later, Sakharov remains correct but Boeing, Lockheed Martin and other defense companies have made off like bandits.

Regardless of what Americans may think about Russia (and the vast majority of Americans don't spare it a second thought), but the country has not ever had a democracy. Why should anyone expect them to have one now? Why dissidents such as Kasparov might have my sympathy, Russia is not my country.

My congratulations to Mr. Kaletsky for stating the obvious. Sadly, no world leader listens.

JR Bowman, Buenos Aires, Argentina

I'm not too happy about this whole thing, the American Imperialism is not fun to live with & its no joke when they mean they will kill all who stands in it path and I know it to be true cause of the mass genocide & racial projects that has cost over 400,000,000 of the Native American Indian, African American, Latino, Hawaiian people that don't meet there standards in the United States more than World War 2 or Joseph Stalin and its starting all over again, this time its the Russian and European nation that they are after.

This whole missile shield thing is a lie, they are doing it because they know that if anyone wants to have a war with them and all they have to do is hit important military targets & there you have it, plus they can deploy troops & supplys much faster so this is real chess move here so grow some balls and tell they them how it is, don't be afraid of a bully and I'm with you 100% and its time to take a stand.

Maurice Titus, SAN ANTONIO , TEXAS

That editorial showed extreme ignorance of Russian and Eastern European history. Of course Ukraine will not see itself as an integral part of Russia. The Great Russians and the Ukrainians diverged after the Mongol destruction of the Kievan State, also known as Rus. Great Russians are not Ukrainians, and Ukrainians are not Great Russians. The situation is less clear in the case of Belarus, but keep in mond that President Lukashenko is sippressing study of the Belarussian language. Even though Russia may never join NATO or the EU, Putin is smart, the current sabre rattling by him is just for doestic consumption, Russia is potentially dangerous, but also it is part of our civilzation now. Who knows, perhaps that missile shield will go up in Poland----and in Azerbaijan as well as President Putin has suggested. What you are seeing are Great Powers accomodating, we will be suspicious of each other at times and we will cooperate at others. Be wary of Russia? Yes, but not to much!

Enrico G., New York City, New York

How can the West preach democratic values? The entire world was against the war in Iraq but the US and UK leaders didn't listen to their electors standpoint. They turned a blind eye for their greed of oil in the Middle East. Russia has the largest stock of oil so it is the next "enemy" with "anti-democratic" values. This word is used against all countries going against the White House aims. It's loosing all its value.
Russia is not an aggressive country but it is defending its position after being completly surrounded by US influence in its neighbouring countries. For example Georgia at the south of Russia has its main motorway from the international airport to the capital called George Bush Avenue; Ukraine to the South West of Russia is influenced to make ennemy with Russia; other states in the caucases to the south of Russia are constantly approached with US financial "support". Estonia dug out a memorial to Russian soldiers. Now a massive arms system is being installed.

Peter Stewart, London,

Like some people from Russia or other countries of former USSR I’ve been reading articles in western press for 3-4 years. Ratio of those articles which were: 1) absolutely biased-65%; 2) biased-30%; 3) unbiased 5% (mostly in “Guardian”). This article’s author one of few of those who finally tried to look at Russia without prejudice and understand what Russians feel and think.
P.S. Hope the article will be read by as many people in the west as possible.

Vlad, Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine

If America were a drug dealer, one would have to assume that it smoked its own product.

We've spent the last twenty years crooning about winning the Cold War, basking in our unipolar moment, and mulling over the idea that perhaps we were the new Roman Empire, astride and ordering a world beholden to our might.

Unfortunately we've latched onto all the historical interpretations that favor our self image, and forgotten key lessons.

Lessons that tell future generations not to be too self satisfied in victory, and humiliate the vanquished. Lessons that display the folly in economic and military overreach. Lessons that demonstrate the essential value of old friends and the benefits turning old enemies into new allies.

And so where we ought have extended a momentary occupation of moral highground in a manner that offered the benefits of peace and prosperity to others, we spurn them, and demonize them, and then wonder why in the world the world begins to fear and loathe our every action

Andrew, Berkeley, California/USA

I couldn't agree more with this article. We need to look at things from an other point of view. As a child growing up in New England, my worst fear was a nuclear war. As an adult with a child of my own my worst fear has not changed. If Bush thinks he can just place missiles anywhere he sees fit without any objections, he truely is left for a fool. Standing there with that smug smirk, stating "the cold war is over". My advise is; let's keep it that way. He's already caused so much damage throughout the world and to American reputation with his cowboy antics on a global scale. When a former President said this adminstration is the worst in history, he was scathed for "gettting of line". Well, I'll say it. This is the worst President in the history of my country. I don't have give the world the laundry list of the blunders. The world already knows. I just hope the world can forgive my country for it's leaders misdeeds. I can say I for one won't welcome him back in Texas.

Marc Brown, Dallas , TX

I have dual citizenship, Russian and American. I had an experience to live in both countries, and I'll tell you, folks, Russian and American politicians are absolutely the same, no difference at all. Well, perhaps, philosophy is different, but methods are exactly the same. Bush is as autocratic as Putin, and US right now is a hair away from a dictatorship... di ja vu.... back to USSR...just on USA territory... the same corruption... the same lies...the same autocratic power...

Yelena Butler, Michigan, USA

Yelena Butler, West Bloomfield, USA

Dear readers,

I do not share the view of most of you that democracy is oppressed in Russia. The fact is that the opposition, like politics in general, is not shown in prime time, but they are given wide coverage on state TV channels, mostly on talk shows.

Such people as Kasparov (a member of the US Council for American Security) nurture western view that opposition is oppressed this way:
I was a looker-on of one demonstration of 'Drugaya Rossiya' (headed by Kasparov). There were like 30 people marching through the street and suddenly they started throwing stones and smoke flares into militia. Right after militia started catching the most active throwers, a few correspondents with cameras came up and started recording 'evil oppression'.

Alex, Moscow,

while in college, over 20 years ago, i took a political geography course in which the russian perspective was presented as one of paranoia...with reason. it sees itself as isolated from europe and the rest of the world; a sentiment that has been accentuated in history by the numerous attempts to conquer it by western european entities.
this paranoia expained to a degree its history of assimilating neighboring states, which aside from the obvious, was also a means of protecting russia proper from outside aggression.
the breakup of the soviet union under yeltsin stripped away that buffer...and the russian's comfort. then to see its former satellites, one by one, joining what amounts to be the "united states of europe", AND an alliance that historically was pitted against it; can only add to that discomfort.
then add to this an american missile defense system right smack dab on its border? oh yes indeed there's call for alarm...by all the parties involved!
and again...with reason.

eric, albuquerque,

Very well written. Little, or nothing, to add

Igor, Moscow, Russia

How long did it take England to introduce general suffrage after the introduction of the Consitutional Monarchy? Almost two and a half centuies. How long did it take the US to introduce general suffrage after the end of the Civil War? Almost 100 years. It's a fantasy to think that Russia will fully comply with rather vague democratic standards of the West within 8 years of Yeltsin's chaos and 8 years of Putin's "sovereign democracy". Many years of tedious work in order to establish and strengthen Russian demorcatic itsitutions without slipping into uncontrollable clutter on the one hand, and into totalitarism on the other are yet to come. Having in mind Russia's geostrategic position and military nuclear potential let's hope this tremendous job will be done in the international atmosphere of constructivism, rather than against the background of encirlement with "purely defensive" missiles and radar bases. All sides should calmly calculate consequences of hysterical mutual accusations.

Alexey, Moscow, Russia

In reply to Mark's poser, my prediction is that over the next century we will see:

the break-up of the European Union, led by the demise of the common currency, and resulting in a period of relative chaos on the Old Continent;

the consolidation of a Far East Asian geopolitical bloc led by China, of which Russia would do well to be very wary;

the emergence of a Near East Asian bloc in the unlikely event that India and Pakistan can find a way to both pull in the same direction at the same time;

the retreat into isolationism of the USA.

It is unlikely that South American economic and social development will accelerate sufficiently for that continent to figure significantly on the geopolitical landscape. As for Africa, sadly...

Boat, Paris,

However natural the seeds of these concerns, they are surely consciously nourished by the authors of popular detektivy novels (people of a certain age over here will be able to remember the subliminal racism of Biggles - take that and double it), and exploited by the leadership for ends which, while they may be in their own interest, don't seem to be in the Russian people's.

It is perhaps as if we were being told that self-determination for Northern Ireland were an existential threat to the UK, not just by a few loonies, but by all politicians and even by soap operas.

The enemy we need to know, as usual, is not a country or its people or their attitudes, but the few loonies who think that tension is in their own interests.

Ian Kemmish, Biggleswade, UK

"Why is hostility to the West so popular in Russia?" I'll answer your question, dear Anatole.

The West is interested in weakening Russia as an international player only. Ordinary russians were robbed by newly "democratic" governments. Nobody from the West tried to discuss this issue during Gorbachev-Yeltsin-Putin robbery times. Quite the contrary the West played into their hands.

That's why russians resent the West as well as their own government.

Dimon, Uryupinsk,

In my opinion, Europe will never be safe until NATO finally realizes the Cold War is over. Russia only has a fraction of the military muscle it once boasted and only the most naive can believe it still has any hope of conducting a successful expansionist policy. Sure, there's the nuclear missiles, but those are weapons of disuasion, not of conquest (who wants to rule a nuclear wasteland?). However, NATO keeps obsessing about that ghost , wasting energy that would be best directed against the real extremist threats elsewhere in Asia. This policy only makes the Russians try to lash back, sometimes with harmless tantrums such as the latest and sometimes with both covert and open cooperation with other enemies of the west in the hopes of counterbalancing the situation a bit. Russia is part of Europe, always has been. Open up to it, everytime that happened before Russia westernized a little more in response. Western values are strong, let's allow them the chance to change the world again.

Vladimir Lagos, San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Mr. putin is a very envious and greedy human being.He want Russia to reassert the position held by fomer USSR and there is no doubt that he views the west as a threat and big enemy. He should be treated as enemy by the west as well .

Drew Mcdevis, Tokyo, Japan

you know i almost complete agree with what this person has said above, I never really thought about US Policies in Russia and other countries view, i don't really agree with how the us is approaching this missile radar system crap, not very many people in this country or in my city atleast, understand what it is or what its going..but the ones who do know this is not good for relations and i as an american citizen completely understand why the reaction out of russia is so tough. Our policies in the states have got to change we need to have the world see that our people shouldn't be punished for the crap bush does, hopefully when hes out things will get better. sorry for the off topic thoughts

Rocky, Elmira, New York, USA

You're absolutely right - it is Bush who is starting this apparent cold war, just as he is trying to provoke Iran by all the warships he has placed in the Persian Gulf. He never learns, does he?

Peggy Podmore, Haliburton, Ontario, Canada

Russia should be invited to participate in the missile shield against rogue states. Russia has much to loose if a rogue missile hit a gas producing installation. All areas of co-operation should be explored, as that is a basis on how constructive change can arise and be effectively communicated to avoid misunderstandings which have and will otherwise continue to occcur. Russia should be invited to join Nato, that would bring about a transformation in relations.

Chris Chittenden, Midhurst, UK

As I russian who lived in USA for the last 13 years I am amazed how shallow the world view of most americans is. And in my opinion is not a bad thing for many countries including Russia. Bush's policies (with support of most americans) help to push oil prices higher, weaken american positions in many regions of the world and encourange reevaluation of strategic priorities by many countries. And if I were the enemy of US, I would say "Keep doing what you are doing".
Also there is no point in trying to argue with Baltic states, Poland and other countries about who defends their interests. I am just amazed how difficult for those countries to move on. They will find out in time their true worth in geopolitical games.
I think that one thing that Russian history can teach other countries is that to be a true patriot does not mean to scream as loud as you can
"God bless USA, UK, USSR" and wrap yourself in a flag daily, but to get informed, think and question your leaders.

Dennis, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Do the Georgians consider their country
to be an integral part of the Russian Motherland?
Do the Kazakh?
Do the Ukrainians?
Do the Azerbaijanis?
Do the Tajik?

Just askin'.....

Mark, New Orleans, La.

The more I read your economic and political analysis the more I think you should switch papers or the Times become an avowed left wing tabloid.
Russia has not given up its imperialistic ambitions and should have surrendered its armed forces at the end of the cold war instead of being pandered to by west. The west is not paying the price for its weakness in dealing with such a mentality.

e hamilton, london, uk

It is time the world speaks frankly and openly about their motive to Russia.
Central Asia is still not loss and remains a challenge to Russia planners. Russia should not buy friendship from the Caucasus, Belarus and Ukraine. Eastern Europe should be skilful ignored as Russia or EU can not afford them. Look at history they join the richer power for survival or you will not hear about them.
Clearly Russia as enough internal state problems that prevent integrated inside Russia proper. It weak politically with people of one nationality kept in the corner of the country in poverty. Russia needs 80% 3-6 bedroom houses ownership with the freedom to live any where in Russia. It is Russia politician job not to fear personal wealth and encourage poverty. This alone will increase Russia GDP to the 6 Trillion mark.
The Soviet union fail because all Russia resources were used to maintain or buy soviet solidarity and fuel the cold war. All those weapon worth nothing.

John Doy, Oxford, U.K

Thanks. Being a 33 y.o. Russian who travells a lot in Europe and made a stage in the EC, who niether supports communists, Kasparov or Edinaya Rossia, who supported the freedom of Pribaltika in early 90s with both hands up, who reads daily YOUR newspapers, I confirm that this is exactly the way we view the situation. The general attitude is that we gave them up everything and look what they do, they come to our borders again (historical memories still work at a genetic level). There are a lot of things going on in Russia lately I do not like, but I must say that Putin voices general feelings of the nation (the latter reffers to numerous disputes with the West - Kosovo, anti missile shiled, our internal reforms etc,). More, the expansion of NATO and the US games with Ukraine, Georgia etc does not make any good for liberals here and only proves that it is all about encircling Russia. Nobody believes the story about US caring about democracy (only naive Europeans).

Ekaterina Nikoulina, St.Petersburg, Russia

If some think that there are only two views to this - the US and Russia's, then they are gravely mistaken. If some think that Russian border states (Ukraine, Georgia, Baltics) and former Warsaw Pact members are simply puppets of the US and say and think only what the US wants, they are gravely wrong. The understanding of the conflict between the West and Russia is eventually decided by the countries in between. If the West wants to give in to Russia's bullying, it has to distance itself from the countries in between. Its either the new post-cold-war EU and NATO or the old pre-cold-war EU and NATO. If Russia wants to ease tensions, it has to be nice to its neighbors, not bully them. Russia could learn form the post-WWII Germany.

tarmo, Tallinn, Estonia

Well, this just proves that i was right in choosing The Times as my paper of choice in Uk. An article for those with IQ of over 100 unlike 99% of the rest of British press.

A geopolitical analysis that i can wholeheartedly agree with. As the Romans said in whose benefit? Look at who benefits the most from the Russia/Eu split and you will find who is the true villan.

Dimitrios, Neofitidis, London Uk

Is cold war so bad? It heats us up, everybody feels some danger and it is like a stimulus to be 'on guard' to work harder etc. :)
Ukrane and Belarus are absolutely independent countries. Yes there are a good deal of ties between Russia and these countries, but I hardly can imagine they will have enough motivation to form a new one country again.

Andrey, Moskow, Russia

A few points:
1 - Anatole's article is commendable in light of exceptionally prurient attitude shown by some commentators in the US and here recently.
2 - Cold war was a reality 20 years ago and to read relations or attempt to redefine relations with Russia today in such light is not only mistaken but also divisive. It serves no purpose for future generations of Russia and Europe.
3 - Political elite of the US and Europe need to recognise that world no longer stops at their borders any more and with emergence of Asian powerhouses, Russia will play a better bridge on economic fronts. It is in our interest that we recognise Russia as an equal partner in deeds too.
4 - Finally, global fight against islamic terrorism requires Russia's help on international stage. Europe has failed abysmally in recognising this by giving refuge to chechen terrorists. One can not continue to justify that my militants are terrorists and yours are freedom fighters.

Prabhat, UK,

Please. So when the "Little Brothers" (the Baltics, Ukraine, Georgia, etc.) are given a choice, they don't want to be ruled by the "Great Russians". Tough.

Jim Connors, Durham,

It is as simplistic to lay the blame for Russian aggressiveness on the US as it is to lay the blame entirely on Russia. While reflexive expressions of contempt for America now passes for political thought in the more juvenile quarters of the world, adults must consider the implications of the twin catastrophes toward which Russia hurtles without any abetting from the United States: an imploding demography juxtaposed with surging Islamic fecundity, and a gangster economy that is being temporarily propped up by a transiently high price of oil. Perhaps Putin is trying to divert attention from Scylla and Charybdis, feeling helpless to solve them, or perhaps he believes the way to conquer these intractable internal enemies is to identify an external one on which to focus the attention of his populace. After all, that straw man worked for seventy years to mask what is now understood to have been the inevitable decay of the Soviet system.

John Rogitz, San Diego, CA

To David Bannen.
Russia has a border with China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Korea, Finland. They are in no hurry to join the NATO. Russia as a separate state starts from 1991. It was Soviet Union before that. Ukrainian, Georgian, Estonian, etc. officials, soldiers, journalists, share the entire liability of the Soviet Union along with the Russians. Please note: 1956 was half a century ago. My generation has nothing to do with that. Do you want us to pay compensation for the charge of the Light Brigade, too?
To Paul T of Grenoble.
Would you prefer to depend on Arab oil, or Chinese oil? Our long-standing partners have never been let down (France, Germany, Italy). The new (would-be) NATO members make problems, because they are too big for their pants and short of cash.

Pavel, Rostov, Russia

Someone actually said this "...Putin's natural reaction." If natural means shutting down all independent media in Russia, then yes, it's natural. As natural as the paranoia that has long entrenched Russian politics and rule.

Russia is not under siege should not be the enemy of the West. However, cozying up to Iran, offing opponents, from the political to the media, and making wild allegations about America and the West certainly doesn't win Russia any great prize. They are backsliding into communism, and more precisely, autocratic rule. They have themselves to blame, but, I know, you readers would rather buy into the "Russia is just trying to get back on their feet" platform as one reader put it. Yep. And that's why they have tried to stifle every democratic advancement in their satellite states.
And there I ahve a new saying for you Europ's who actually believe Hillary is the answer: "No more Bush's and No More Clinton's!"

j, atlanta ,

Congratulations to Mr Kaletsky - his analysis is perceptive, logical and well-grounded. The West has never understood the Russian pysche - while admiring its art and literature - and America has chosen to draw down a new iron curtain to cover its foreign policy blunders in the Middle East. European leaders are new and changing and are therefore in a very weak position. Mr Kalestsky is right to characterise the EU (with its military wing NATO) as an empire, albeit the first postmodern one of its kind, and the sooner it attempts to define its borders the better and safer for all of us. If it doesn't, both Russia and China can only conclude that they face a new economic, military and financial superpower which is closely aligned with its new Iron Curtain enemy, America. For Russia, a traditional enemy of Turkey, the last straw and last piece of encirclement will be the latter's entry to the EU. From that point on, you can be sure where Russia's missiles will be pointed - the EU!!

Dr David Green, Athens, Greece

Putin's joke that he's the purest democratic politician since Mahatma Gandhi sounds very much like that said of a German one: it is no laughing matter. It would be his great achievement if he transformed Russia into another dynamic and prosperous Singapore. It is well known that Lee KY, the island republic's ex-premier and benevolent autocrat introduced laws during his long tenure that are, in the liberal West, perceived to be somewhat draconian.That civil servants there remiss in their duties and suspected to be corrupt would rather commit suicide than face the wrath of a person known for his probity has given this state its 'clean' reputation, with a secure top position on the list of Transparency International. (This is no sycophantic talk but praise must be given where it is due.) Here is an example for Putin to emulate or else Gandhi if he had been asked about his views on Russian democracy (never mind British civilization) would have replied, "I think it would be a good idea."

SD Goh, PJ, MALAYSIA

I normally don't write "amen, brother" types of posts but for Kaletsky I'll make an exception. His analysis almost always cuts right through the usual spinning BS whether it's yobs in schools or pols mischieviously setting up a new cold war.

Russia is in demographic collapse and a wounded bear is always dangerous. Whilst the West should diversify its energy sources as a precaution, it should leave the Russians to deal with their problems as best they can.

And in the meantime, no bear-bating!

Mary Shelley, London, UK

Maybe Putin is just trying to stop the G8 from talking about the man-made global warming hoax... Russia could use some global warming and they have plenty of hydrocarbons to sell.

Mark, Virginia, USA

At last!
Thank you, mr. Kaletsky! The first sober and pragmatical view in the Western for long time.
I'm sure that mr. Putin after 2008 when he leaves presidency will be a kind of Russian George Washington, the man who "gathered stones" despite all those "frank conversations".

Pavel, Saint-Petersburg,

Great article! I could't say better. At least one man is able to understand us.

Anatoly, Archangelsk, Russia

The west did not "take over" the Ukraine, Georgia et al. The peoples of these governments voted for independence, and to leave Russias self proclaimed "sphere of influence". Given Russias previous response to "ungrateful" neighbours, from Hungary in 56 and the Prague spring, to turning off the gas during midwinter in recent years, is it any surrprise that NATO and EU membership is the first priority of anyone with a Russian border?

David Bannen, Oxford, UK

Not Bad! It's only half of the truth, but now I see that the "Cold War"-style zombification of your mass-media gets down.

P.S. Oh, author thinks that he has understood Putin's joke about Gandhi?) Yes, it was sarcasm, but also an easy hint here. Means the West's lie about Putin's participation in murder of representatives of "opposition"(absurdly!) and problems with real democraty in America&EU.

Eugene, Ufa, Russia

It is this kind of article that keeps me reading this paper . Nice work Mr Kaletsky , I agree wholeheartedly , as i do with Michael Murphy also .

Benzo, Nr Chelmsford,

Thank you for this breath of honesty and reason.

A very Russian girl, Irkutsk, Russia

A well written article, thankyou.

I have a poser for the readers (and anatole):

Being a bit of a progressive libertarian, I've always been quite fond of the notion that technology is pushing younger generations towards a post-nationalistic world (the death of 'geography' as it were - a concept that is perhaps inconceivable to today's geopolitical task masters).

On the other hand, tribal, national and ideological conflict have always been an inherent attribute of humanity.

As such, I would like to know whether you feel an Asian-EU-US bloc geopolitical conflict is on the cards in the next century or so?

Mark, Woking, UK

Blair and Bush - the jolly bullies will be gone soon. The sooner the better. Blair's arrogance and Bush's intellectual abyss are responsible for Putin's perfectly natural reactions.

The sooner Hilary Clinton takes over in America the better.
She'll get on with the Russian leaders. President Putin has a lot of domestic problems without the B-B bullies attacking him. He needs help from the West. I'm sure Hilary is well aware of this.

John, Bangor, North Wales

Great article. Just one question hanging: could Europe take any advantage out of this cold war reheating? Russia is one of the main economical partner for some of the bigger European economies - esp. Germany and Italy. Most of Europe depends massively on Russian resources - and eventually, as the North Sea oil runs out, this is probably going to be the case for the UK as well. In contrast, it seems to me that the USA have not much to lose out of growing tension with Russia. On the opposite - they might hope to regain some of the influence they could be losing due to blunders such as Iraq. I think Europeans should seriously watch out. This game might well have started as one on the weakness of the Russians, but it might well end up as one on their own weakness.

Paul T, Grenoble,

Russia doesn't just have the West to worry about. It has a population of 150 million, and declining, versus Europe's 450 million and, more importantly, shares a long common border with a resurgent China with a population of 1,300 million and growing. The West, Russia, China triangle may be the bigger issue in the coming decades than the Russia, West bipolar struggle.

Others may believe that the main struggle will be the West versus Islam. Whether the struggle is China, or Islam, versus the West, Russia will have an important swing role to play. We will have to manage the relationship better than it has been managed in the last 20 years.

oldasiahand, Guildford, UK

Yes, the Western attitude to Russia is incomprehensible. We all need a European alliance from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Al Quaeda sees no difference between us, and will treat us both equally. Russia is certainly more democratic than Turkey, Ukraine, Gulf States or Taiwan. Russia is certainly more European than Albania, Bosnia or Georgia. All nations should unite, of course, but the sad reality of the present-day world is that the countries with European and Christian traditions are facing common threats and should stick together, or do down one by one.

Pavel, Rostov, Russia

You do know your history!

Adam, Vancouver, Canada

Even all this is an understatement. As well as contending with the West, Russia has to ccontend with China's emergent economic strength, burgeoning population and desire for natural resources on its Eastern flank; and hostile Islamists in the south. This could well lead to a feeling of encirclement, just as Germans felt in 1914. Ther are other worrying parallels, such as Russia identifying with Russian populations in neighbouring countries just as Germany did with the Czech Sudentanland in 1938; and the flashpoint of an isolated port on the Baltic, Kallan, similar to the tensions around the Danzig corridor in Poland in 1939. All this encourages the Russians towards emotional irrationality, that is no less dangerous than chess playing diplomacy

Stan, Ricmond, UK

Congratulations Anatole. At lease someone writes the truth. The west has never lost it's cold war mentality and my guess is it probably never will. While to U.S needs to manipulate world affairs to satisfy it's insatiable thirst for energy and control of those resources, there will always be problems.

If the rest of the world took a stand against the U.S on it's oil consumption and forced it to review its own needs, we may see a smoother road to world cooperation.

It the Americans spent less on military (which needs to be kept busy to justify it) and more on alternate energy technologies to fuel their economy things would change for the better.

DS, Darwin, Australia

Its about the time that Mr Putin called Russia's old ally Fidel Castro and request the basing of missiles in Cuba as a shield in case rogue states taking the eastabout route to bomb Russia.

michael murphy, brightlingsea, england

My applause and gratitude to the Author. It couldn't have been explained or commented on better! Thank you.

George Shorkov, Moscow, Russia

At last a reasonable and intelligent analysis which one can agree with. the problem is people are led to believe that if the US or its Western European allies say something it automatically becomes the Gospel against which everything else is compared. this blind faith in everything the Americans say is the primary reason for their arrogance and confidence in their own views prevailing against all others.
Well Done Mr.Kaletsky

Srikanth, Crawley,

At last! Someone who considers the other side of the coin. We really need more of this kind of thinking. It is so easy to see everything from one point of view. I believe the Russians when they say their policies are pragmatic, and not ideological. They are simply trying to get back on their feet.
It would also be helpful if we could imagine what would be the reaction if Russia was expanding in America's backyard.
By the way, I heard that the missiles can be aimed at Europe, or elsewhere by the press of a button. So Putin making this threat is no big deal really if he can do it at any time.

Alice, Moscow,

The US’s dangerous commitment to nuclear militarism
The New Nuclear Danger: George W. Bush’s Military-Industrial Complex by Dr Helen Caldicott.

"In his farewell speech in January 1961, President Eisenhower warned: “In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic process.” Dr Helen Caldicott’s New Nuclear Danger reveals the lethal danger of allowing the arms industry to dictate US foreign policy."

George Dutton, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Agreed. Russia is under seige. And the Russian people themselves deserve a lot more than they have now. After decades of repression and poverty, corruption and extreme violence still reign supreme. No EU country is Russia's natural ally. Finland is an understanding neighbour, but powerless. In order to obtain the global influence he craves, Putin will cultivate the Islamist states as future allies.

Tony Gold, Bangkok, Thailand

No, Anatole, America and Europe have not restarted the Cold War: that is the doing of the US alone. We are dragged in its bloody footsteps much as Italy had to follow Nazi Germany in the 1930s.

I like Americans - but I fear America.

Noel Falconer, COUIZA, France

Russia afraid of NATO? What a joke...Do countries like Estonia and Slovenia really add anything? Outside of the US and UK NATO is militarily very weak. Instead, Russia is aligning itself with China, North Korea, Iran, Venzuela and other anti-western despotic regimes with a real desire to possess and use military power and nuclear weapons. The threat to aim nukes at Europe is coming to fruition via proxy in Iran. Russia (with China) protects countries like North Korea and Iran from consequences of their bad behaviour. I don't agree that Russian paranoia is caused by the West: it is their own dysfunctional political structure that caused it to happen. Russia is in fact it's own worst enemy.

Steven C., Tampa, USA