One wonders if World War I ever ended, hence World War II was merely decades later. Yet after World War II it seems to still have not ended with the Nuclear Cold War which unfortunately will never end until they are gone or all used, and the Global Economic War which has been going on since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Whether Green answers the pollution depends on how much of the other Green can be made? How do you think Global relationships are going to get any better with such inflation and demand by massive consumption? I am a firm believer that the consumers control the planet. If everyone just stopped buying orange juice, it would be off the shelf.

David, Las Vegas,

Eric, from Eagan. You are under the misconception that the whole world wants to emigrate to the US. Only people from poor countries want to go there, people from wealthier countries couldn't care less. In Europe and the far east in particular we live just as well if not better.

The problem is not America, it is a certain type of ignorant american, your current leader just happens to be one of them. Interesting to see how many like him are on this site.

akram, London,

I'm wondered, you my western friends have such opinion - if Iran is our enemy it must be the enemy of Russia. - But my friends we are an independent state and it's our own right to choose our policy. And if it does not coincide with yours, it does not mean that we are your enemies.
And American bases should be in American territory instead of in Europe

Sturnus-Zaurals, NS, Russia no ne vasha

I'll be happy to see the back of Blair - the only time he stands up to anyone is the last day on the job - wow, thanks for that big boy.

Andy, Seattle, USA

Russia is a great country (we wouldn't have got rid of Hitler without her many sacrifices; her culture is 2nd to none), but I fear that Blair is right about Putin. I really hate to have to agree with him about something.

Putin is acting like a previously-bullied child who's finally discovered the power he has and is brandishing it for all its worth.

The West needs good relations with Russia and these pointless threats from the Kremlin don't help anyone. Don't give Bush - lame duck though he now is - any excuses to rattle his sabre, again.

David Harrison, Manchester, UK

Whatever the outcome of the impasse between the west and Russia, the implications will be far reaching. For example the defiance by Iran over its nuclear programme shows this growing trend by countries that would traditionally not take on the west. This trend of defiance if left unchecked could lead to a nuclear war. What happened to the respect that was traditionally accorded to the superpowers. Even Mugabe in Zimbabwe has his own defiance campaign going. I urge the west to ambandon this ''softly softly approach' and deal with Putin's regime asap.

Lloyd Msipa, London, U.K

Like a lot of things political these days, lots of HEAT and not much LIGHT... It's unfortunate that clear-headed and gutsy leaders are cancelled out of most of the election process.
Most of our so-called leaders are not the most qualified, just the winners of financially fueled "Lying Contests"... It's called Integrity and there's very little of it about.

K. Bennett, Kansas City, USA

Putin seems to be looking for ways to pick a fight with the USA and this is just the latest. A few years ago, he could sit back and watch France and Germany do it for Russia. Nowadays, despite the lingering Bush administration, the governments of France, Germany and most of the European countries are much more aligned with the USA on world issues (except Iraq) than they were not long ago. Furthermore, to paraphrase Chancellor Merckel of Germany, other than Belarus, most European countries have much more in common with the US than they do with Russia. Maybe this explains the much more bellicose public statements coming from Moscow nowadays. Further, the Soviets used to play the same game of trying to split up the USA and Europe by trying to scare Europe when the US went to install defensive missles there in the 1980s. A lot of Greenpeace types held mass demonstrations, but the end result was increased solidarity across the Atlantic and the eventual collapse of the USSR.

Chip Wagar, New Orleans, Louisiana

The twin dangers facing Europe are the Islamic invasion , misleadingly called immigration and efforts by outsiders to divide us. Wahhabi and Saudi money has already corrupted its way into the British, Swedish and Spanish establishments for example. The second and graver danger is attempts to divide us . Russia is as much a part of Europe as Germany, Portugal and Greece. We need their resources, markets and friendship. And we in Western Europe value Russia more than say the neo-fascist politiocians in Estonia or Poland.
We can safely disregard the commentary from the States even if, somewhat rarely it is informed and not pugnacious (only 18% of Congressmen have been abroad and only a handful speak a foreign language). After all , we are discussing Europe and nowhere else

Marco Borg, London , United Kingdom

Igor in St. Petersburg – The viewpoint is naïve and your premise is non sequitur. As Bill Isenberger stated, an objective historical account is necessary to understand Russia. The land mass alone making up Russia includes religious, political, ethnic, tribal, and economic aspects never adequately addressed. The fallacy of the argument is that a “strong authoritarian government” repressed/masked the problems – it didn’t address/resolve them. As maniacally enforced with the Soviets, a fear of government and reprisal from that same entity (Cheka thru FSB) provided a common basis of discontent for all. Logically, it cn be construed that the fear of the people united them and suppressed the more long term issues/differences. The fall of the Soviet Union exposed these issues and no one internally has the power/political will to solve them. Democracy, while not perfect, is not your enemy/problem. It is an apathetic society unable to understand the struggle needed to change itself for better.

Mr. K, Ft. Wayne, USA

"This is not a real problem internationally. Putin is puffing and needs this rhetoric to dominate Russian and become another political Stalin. Currently, he has to step down from "power" in 2008. He doesn't want to do that and with his KBG background, as to how he thinks, he'll get the Russian Constitution changed and be in there forever. He needs this "missle" spiff to help him do just that."

Dick, Honesdale, PA

Best post on the board. Well said Dicky.

Joe, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear

Vladimir Putin told Tony Blair yesterday that the world was becoming more and more afraid of the USA and Britain's behaviour at home and abroad.

How about that?

Anton, Denver,

Russia wouldn't dare. Mutual destruction theory saved us in the Cold War and will do so again.

Ben, York,

If the US is allowed to put its missile defence shield on Russia's doorstep, I wonder how receptive the US would be to have a Russian missile defence shield surrounding the US? My theory is that they wouldn't take too kindly to it!

The US continues to work against everyone else's best interests in the world and it is the US that has to be stood up to every now and then to keep them in check. I don't think Putin is actually very different from any world leader in his response or in his actions elsewhere

Andy, Seattle, USA

Whatever the Bush administration' justification about installing ABM defenses in central Europe, this is bound to create a sense of strategic insecurity in Russian minds. Further to defeating the USSR in the cold war, this act of installing ABM right in the centre of the former Soviet strategic space is bound to rub salt into the wounds of the historically fraught and insecure Russian psyche, and it is unlikely that any Russian leadership group would accept it. More fundamentally, there is a pernicious dynamic that operates in international politics called the 'security dilemma', identified by the Greek historian Thucydides in his account on the origins of the Peloponessian Wars, which states that, in some circumstances, even a defensive move by one side would be misconstrued as offensive in character by the other, thus fuelling mutual hostility and suspicions. This is exactly what seems to be happening between the West and Russia now - the onset of the security dilemma.

Pravin Jethwa, London, England, U.K.

Mr Blair, who had a good relationship with Mr Putin in the early days of his presidency .. . . . . .

Whose presidency? Blairs?

Peter, Portsmouth,

"I've been to Russia and their society is paranoid, xenophobic, deeply troubled, authoritarian and militaristic. "

Well, I had to laugh at this - you're describing a society that I don't recognise. In fact, it seemed more like Tony Blair's UK.
I've been living here over the past 10 years. All I see is people very happy to be able to start earning a decent salary, go on a package tour holiday, buy a new car, and do DIY at their dacha. The great majority are not concerned with politics, just very appreciative that they can be consumers like us in the West. Too bad, they will lose their souls like we have lost ours.
The first time I moved here, in 1998 there was only one supermarket which you could call 'Western' and navigate with a trolley in Moscow. Now, my nearest supermarket is so big that assistants use rollerskates to get around it and it has 80 or so cash registers. And it is packed with happy shoppers who are not thining about politics.

Alice, Moscow,

I think that, for all the cold war rhetoric of Mr Putin, the West is shooting itself in the foot here. How can they press Russia on findamental issues such as democratization, human rights and transparency when they cause the focus to turn on security and defence? As Bush should know, corrupt regimes and bad governments are much more likely to stay in power as long as they can present themselves to be defending the country.

Emmanuel, London,

If you believe in shields you probably also believe in Santa and his reindeer. Word on the street in DC is that George W. is just achin' to do a Slim Pickens and 'ride one in'. "Here I come, Vlad, yee-haw!"

Tony Gold, Danang, Vietnam

For those who are in favor of radar installation.
The radar installed in Cheh Republic in cooperation with US nuclear submarines in all waters around Russia makes it possible to attack first in the nearest future 5-10 years from now. That is probable scenario if all Russian nuclear submarines around US and other places will be under control and destroyed simultaneously with that first American preventive strike. This is all Putin is talking about.
The radar in Cheh Republic and interceptor missiles in Poland is a probe. Just wait 2-5 years you will see new places of installation. If you believe to State Department take it easy, believe the tail about Rouge States, and get ready for a War with tons of radioactive material landing on your streets after the American preventive strike happens. Apart from that you may talk to each other in your grocery stores and promise to each other to be best friends. Sorry, it doesn't work this way outside the store.

Maxim, Moscow, Russia

The USA is pushing Russia too far. Just imagine the Chinese or Russian military bases in Mexico, Cuba, and Venezuela and in dozen other places surrounding USA. That is what US is doing to China and Russia. US were ready to start a nuclear war over one small base in Cuba, in 1962! Unfortunately, Russia can't stay by, but have to retaliate. And they have an upper hand. They can give away a few nuclear weapons to Cuba, Iran, Korea or Venezuela. Europe is making big mistake in joining this arms race. Europe needs Russia, as much as Russia needs China and Europe. There is nothing good coming out of USA now, and there will be less coming out in the future.

Roger Dale, Spartanburg, USA/ S.Carolina

I am amazed by the amount of hatred pouring from representatives of Christ -democracy-loving US citizens towards Russia. I think we saw in the last three years how Americans intend to bring democracy to the rest of the world - in Iraq. I am not in Russia and I am wishing that the Russians would have more democratic freedoms, but my word: brain -washed americans - are realy sad nut cases. You realy belive that you are the only nation in the human history capable of dominating the Glob forever? Why you? And what if not? You can deal with Fiedel for 25 years - Whay do you think you will servive all of us? What are you planning to do with the Chinese communist party?

Sergei, Lewes , the Uk

Baghdad would be pacified if we were fighting wars the way we did in the 1940's. That much I can assure you.
Let's not forget most of our problems in the Middle East are a result of the European colonial days. We are the ones that forced you to stop dominating the region and allow self-determination for the people there. Our time of meddling there is but a bit in a long history of a Western power play in the region. Same goes for Africa.
If you want a Russia under Putin to emerge to restore "balance." Go ahead. I hope you get your wish.

Justin, Baltimore, USA

I understand Europeans who are tired of American arrogance but I can't comprehend how this translates into sympathy with Russia or Iran, two countries that continue their tradition of threatening European values. I've been to Russia and their society is paranoid, xenophobic, deeply troubled, authoritarian and militaristic. They've never experienced the Enlightenment and only respect government through armed force. Putin is creating instability to boost energy prices because when they fall the whole place is going to go down the drain like it did in the 90's. I've been to Poland too - ask a Pole whether they think the Russians or the Americans are a greater threat to world peace. Or you could ask an Iranian if you just want to believe that American power is responsible for every problem in the world.

Mike, Pittsburgh,

"So what is going on here? Perhaps it is the old "external threat" to divert attention from internal failure"

That could be said of the US too, there always needs to be a "bad guy" for the US to be at loggerheads with. Perhaps that is to take away focus on the internal problems in the US. Perhaps the fact that the worlds dominant "super power" has a third world of poverty within its own borders and why it took so long to help the flood victims, disgrace! And stop subsidising NASA. The only reason your government continues to subsidise NASA to under cut bids from private space firms is to maintain dominance over space. We may have found ways to get to and inhabit new planets by now if you weren't so happy with getting to the moon and then doing... well... nothing! (except maybe throw up some satellites and look through giant telescopes at where we could be)

G, Edinburgh,

As I can see, Yanke like the word "KGB" very much, so I think the time has come and we should refuse from our oil and gas. Yanke will buy any our thing, if it has the label "KGB". So I think, if we go this way, we will become very rich in a few years.

Sturnus-Zaurals, NS, Russia no ne vasha

TO MS from old bridge,

The defense missile shield can easily be twarted simply by attaching decoys to the attacking missile, which can be launched in mid-air in multiple directions. The intercepting missile would have no way of figuring out the real target. This 100 Billion US $ and counting is a total waste of tax payer's money. And for Bush to deploy it in Europe, without consulting those who would be affected by this move, notably Russia, reeks of arrogance. But what else can you expect from an incompetent nitwit?

joseph palazzo, Laval, Canada

What are you talking about?
Russia defenses itself against US and Great Britain weapon.US and Great Britain never helped Russia after destroying USSR.
Mr.Blair and Mr.Bush had to say SORRY to all the World.

9323610.812.ru, St.Petersburg, Russia

Every country has got the leader it deserves, either Russia or the USA are not exceptions to this. Or are they?

There was a deep shock and sence of insecurity among ordinary soviet people after the collapse of the USSR. Putin has exploited this feeling to the full extent and government propaganda about Great Russia is everywhere in russian media.
Putin has realized that the only way to re-establish his country's reputation is to play natural resourses and nuclear power cards. Russia has been selling out its oil and gas left, right and centre and this was one and the only success factor of Putin's economic politicies.
The United States surprised the world when they elected GWB a president. Everyone was even more surprised when he got re-elected. Sad. The man with his cowboy attitude to everything has caused a lot of harm to his party and his counrty.
Unfortunately, countries are generally judged by their leaders. In my opinion, both Russia and the USA deserve better ones.

Andrej Shulga, London, the UK

I really don't understand. People seem to forget all the sudden what was the purpose of the ABM treaty, signed by US and USSR during Cold War and left by US in 2002 ? It was to limit the nuclear race of course, because "defensive" strategic weapons are still strategic weapons, they are meant to give a decisive advantage on the nuclear battlefield. When you have a "shield", you can easily overwhelm your enemy. Having a situation where US can threaten every country in the world without any balance is worrying for Russians, I can understand that. But I still can't understand why so much people act surprised regarding Putin's (over-)reaction !

Jean-Marc Lenoir, Paris, France

We talk about the dubiousness of Russian demoncracy and Russian foreignpolicy manoeuvring: has the West set them a glowing paradigm in the American elections, Iraq and Al Yammamah?

We can't have our cake and eat it.

David Marusza, Cardiff, Wales

The Russians have sealed their place in World History and are the party that must find ways to change if trust and peace are to bloom. Leninist/Stalinist freebooters killed millions upon millions with little regard for Western Civilization or civility. Putin would provide the Iranians with deadly isotopes, undermine civilization’s interests everywhere, and kill or jail those whom he dislikes in his own swamp, even slither out and bite them on dry ground elsewhere. Time to be realistic, draw some boundaries, and call a Russian a Russian. If not, then cower as usual and let them play. We know where that leads historically, but if we must go the route of whimpering little pansies wetting our panties, at least be honest and admit we are such. Putin and his Russians don't mess about with silly, false claims of goodness or clothe cowardice in the guise of piety. I pay him grudging respect for staring down our Court Jesters and pocketing the dollars to boot. He may be a thug, not that intelligent, and dangerously vile, but he gets press

Rex Lewis Field, Von Ormy, USA/Texas

Russia is scared witless. Poland overran the Red Army in 1919-21, and could do so again with American and European weapons, compared to the terrible currrent Russian army. Russia's only fightback is nuclear weapons, which would be negated by the new system. Estonia, Georgia, Chechnya, Ukriane. All have fought for freedom. Russia is terrified and vulnerable, and that makes it more deadly than ever.

Ben, York,

whats up world. American people have no problems with Russia or its people. We would rather discuss Paris Hilton. And I bet 90% of Russians have no problem with Americans. It's are goverments that create the problems. It comes down to the two big bullies on the block sooner or later there gonna fight. They do it with proxy's, Russia sells weapons to Iran, America sell weapons to Isreal I could name about a dozen or more countries this involves. I voted for Bush the second time not because I like him but because John Kerry was a weak terd who has no buisness running a Mcdonalds. Putin is a strong leader I can see why the Russian people like him. However today is Saturday June 9th and I just read how Putin is contemplating making a run in 2012 if they decide to change the constitution for him. But don't worry world we will have Hilary Clinton on the seen. Ha Ha Ha
(God Help us all)

Tyler, Springfield, Mo

The Russians already have a missile shield protecting Moscow. Putin's stance is the height of hypocrisy.

Fabio Escobar, Buffalo, USA/NY

To L. Godena,

Your lack of understanding is pitiful...we could certainly control baghdad, if we so chose, but it would cost the lives of thousands more civilians, imprisonment for thousands of others, creating a virtual prison camp for most of the free, and the destruction of it society. Your countrymen bleed still so at least we can try to give these people a normal life as possible as they attempt to return theirs to a normal society. Do you think the russians would not declare brutal martial law in the same situation? They do it to their own people! How about the Iranians, or Chinese? They would not tolerate their own soldiers dying just so the local populace would have a chance to live life as free people. I disagree with this war as much as anybody, but quit drinking the left's kool-aid and wringing your hands about what bad people we are. Look around and you will find worse characters in the world than us.

chris, phoenix, USA/AZ

Blair should be really concentraing on his own impact on international community...

Gordon Brown, London,

I believe all Eastern European countries will applaude for any additional deffence system. And quess why?

If there will be a common interest with US then why shouldn't it be installed?

Daniel, Tartu, Estonia

Look at the signs of the times when many speak of peace but dangerous charismatic figures have a much different agenda for the world.

John, Philadelphia, USA

Russia is no more than a 3rd world country with Nukes. The only reason that they are a viable political force is because we have given them the funds to continue. I say if Mr Putin wants to return to "cold war" status then so be it. The people of Russia will let him know how long he can remain then.

Ken Ramsey, Christiansburg, VA

At first I want to thank Alfonso, Nick Black and many others for posts that have given me hope that there are enougth people in US who can fight the stereotypes and propaganda.
Sometimes when I read or watch US media I think what I would believe if I would be american . . . UK or German media are mostly better, however they also often import US views.

To people thinking in terms: "KGB is always KGB":
the world is not black and white, even if you like simplisity.
KGB does not exist 20 years. FSB is only reorganized part of it very similar to FBA. SVR is our kind of CIA. 'Brainwash' destroyed. Unfortunatelly US does not seem to follow last part . . .

Dmitry, russian, Juelich, Germany

If you look at the history of the cold war Russia was more
interested in protecting it's self from the military power of the US than taking over the world.
The US on the other hand with it's recent history and current actions is proving it's self to be on a path to world
domination.
The only thing slowing down the US is the military power of
Russia and China.

Eric, N.Reading,

Thank you Mr.Blair,
for telling off this little Godfather with a big chip on his shoulder, who eroded and destroyed with one sentence the good reputation and respect the lovely people of Russia deserve!

ewald_w, shanghai, china

Why would a missile defence be threatening?

A missile defence can be turned into a missile offence.
Remember Cuba 1962.
The story as the other way around.
I don't see how a Russian can percieve it differently.

John Smythe, Ottawa, Canada

I am truly saddened by the negative relations that are developing between the "West" and Russia. I have traveled in Russia and have hosted Russian people in my home. In reality, we are not so different. People want to have a comfortable life with security and education for their families and friends. How do we get to pointing missiles at one another? Let's begin to deal with the issues from an economic standpoint and not military. What can the "West" do to enhance the relationships? What can Russia do to enhance the relationships? First, let's do lunch and then go shopping. Online. I know some great outlets where we can buy goods from all over the globe. Perhaps one of them is selling the "Peacemaker" brand undergarments that all G8 attendees should wear.....comfy, beautifully tailored to be in touch with those all important body parts, and guarunteed to always be in style. Hey, it's worth a try!

Mary Douglass, Columbia, Missouri

Historian Richard Reeves described how Khruschev knew that JFK didn't attend economics classes in London and made a fool of him when they met. JFK told Rusk it would be a long winter. He knew trouble was coming and the Berlin Wall followed. Unfortunately Senate friend of JFK even hinted in an article that a wall might be acceptable t the U.S. JFK weakness led further to the Cuba missile crisis. Contrast that with Nixon's kitchen debate with Khruschev. Russia would never have built the wall or put missiles in Cuba if Nixon had been President.

Richard L.A. Schaefer, dubuque , USA/Iowa

Wiktor, and on Polish invasion to Russia please read
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polish-Soviet_War
Actually, Poland was the aggressor, arranging pogroms and murdering thousands of jews on Russian soil. They probably do not tell you this in your Polish school.
And they do not tell you about Polish crimes when it invaded Russia in 17th century and in 1812. Please educate yourself. If you look into Russian textbooks, you will find much more truth about our history, about Stalin's crimes, and about Katyn forest as well.

Zvezdochet, Moscow, Russia

Hogwash! President Bush and Prime Minister Blair have been protecting their "democracies" to the best of their ability since 9/11. Their warming about the safety of Great Britain and America from terrorists dedicated to our demise has been stated by both of these men and those willing to commit these deadly acts. Mr. Blair brought Britain out of socialistic programs to a country competing very effectively with a British Pound that has soared. Respect, admiration and trust are deserved by both of these leaders. Time will prove them both more right than wrong.

Sue D., Phoenix, Arizona

I really do fear that people just don't get it. Russia is not an enemy of the West, of America, or of Britain. Russia is a European nation with European values and principles. But Russia is a superpower, like it or not. And when Bush, rather arrogantly, plans for a U.S.-controlled military operation to be based on former Soviet soil, that's going to irk people.

And as for Russia being a supplier to Iran, that's purely business. Don't think for one minute that Russia cares about Iran, other than making a profit off of that country or expanding Russia's oil partnerships.

If the U.S. is angry about what was said in the latter paragraph, then this merely means that better relations need to emerge. And such contentious issues like this missile defense system need to be dealt with care, and that means consulting Russia first, and not installing this system if Russia objects to it.

Filip, Novi Sad, Serbia

Bravo for Tony Blair - an ally to the end. And one who also speaks so eloquently.

Roy, Fort Worth, TX

Once KGB...always KGB!.

Robert, Princeton, NJ

There is no doubt that Putin is not interested in democratizing Russia. Quite the contrary. He was the head of the KGB, a died-in-the-wool communist and has stated that he is interested in bringing greatness back the motherland. I believe his idea of greatness will be to resurrect the USSR in an imperialistic way. We'll see. The cold war appears to be on again.

Dennis , Tulsa, Oklahoma

Please don't blame Bush or Blair for Russia's weakness for authoritarian government. They are not elected officials of Russia -- Putin is. Under Boris Yelsin the Russian people had the opportunity to move towards a free society. They apparently have chosen the latter -- at least for now. Hopefully, they'll continue on the path toward freedom once Putin leaves -- or is deposed

Kevin Hyland, Newton, NJ

As you know Putin offered a compromise atG8 on Thursday- about Azerbajan Radar. Russians are ready for mutually beneficial compromises. Waiting for the reasonable reply from the West.

Anton, St.Petersburg, Russia

KS from Fort Pierce, USA. Seriously. Think about what you've said, Chief. Do you really mean that or are you exaggerating for dramatic affect? Do you know anything about Putin? Have you heard a whole lot of dissent in Russia? What about in the USA? Think about that for a bit.

HDA, Dayton, USA

good for Tony Blair...America will miss his courage and eloquence Thank you Tony Blair...

vernon marler, jacksonville, florida...USA

Good for Mr. Blair! #10 Downing Street and the West will be without the immediate leadership of a strong ally in Mr. Blair. Summits of the nature of the recent meeting of the G-8 Group is no place for "politically correct" niceties. Frank discussion, candor and clear expression are valuable. If one thinks that Mr. Putin is "all smiles" without other ideas of his own, one is kidding oneself. Thanks, Mr. Blair, for expressing very valid concerns of the West .... and, for that matter, the rest of the free world.

Shelton Hand, Jr., Clinton,

Russia still has old guard military leaders that could truly throw the nation back if Putin's power were to be challenged. In some sense his consolidation is Russia's only defense against this outcome. While Putin may be perceived as taking a step back, he is doing no differently than Roosevelt and Congress did during the great depression, or Bush and Congress have during the years after 9/11. I do not necessarily agree with Putin's strategy, but he is more qualified to determine the proper course of action than Bush or Blair; neither of whom can protect "democracy" within their own borders let alone institute it in Iraq or preserve it in Russia.

Charles, Olympia, USA, Washington

Like the UK Is some great democratic model? Give me a break! I'll never travel to the UK again! Too much "big brother"!

JonathanM, Orlando, FL

I agree with Putin's views and his approach to strengthening his country. They are a sovereign nation, and a powerful one I might add. Leave them alone and the British as well as the Americans should mind our own business.

Alfonso, Plantation, USA, Florida

For eight years, Mr Putin has patiently cultivated his strength while the west tore itself apart with bad government and bad decisions in the turmoil following 9/11. Putin has restored Russia to a position of substantial influence in Europe whose reliance on Siberian oil and gas is an increasing source of strength for the Russian economy. This new era of flexing and jostling will not end with an exchange of harsh words. The Russian program is really an expression of the siloviki's desire to regain as much power and influence as they once had through the KGB and Central committees. Now that their strength is returning, they remember the absolute influence of the former Soviet Union. Russia today is like a patient in recovery anxious to learn how much of its former health and powers it can regain. 'Thank god, I can walk again' it tells itself. 'Now, will I also be able to run?' There will be border disputes. There will nuclear threats. There will be fewer constitutional guarantees.

giles slade, Richmond , Canada, BC

Russia is still the evil empire it has been all my life,and i'm sixty-two years old. they are selling nuclear technology to anyone with the money to pay for it,they can't account for so much of thier nuclear weapons of suitcase size,and these weapons could be in the hands of terrorist,who would love to use them against us.The Russian mafia is now vertually running thier country,now anyone who disagrees with Putin's policies is turning up dead.

TERRY, RENO, NEVADA

Why does a radar station and 10 DEFENSIVE missiles worry Mr Putin so much, after all he has 60 ABM's circling Moscow?
At the same time of this "crisis", Russia announced that a new "radar-proof" ICBM is being tested and deployed, while the USA completely scrapped it's most advanced MX missile system and instead uses 30 year old Minute-man missiles, Putin further stresses that the test was the "direct result" of the USA merely proposing the new base. Of course this missile has been under development for nearly 20 years. So in conclusion, usual Russian deception, OK?

mark, houston , texas

Tony blair have no moral authority to ask or lecture on ones behaviour. Simply put "A WAR CRIMINAL " whose power has ebbed because of Atrocities by being complicit.Comitted the greatest evil "WAR"

August Abraham, Port of Spain, Trinidad&Tobago

They have oil, natural gas, and weapons to trade.

Hans Conser, Bozeman, MT

Imagine that Russia had recently announced plans to install missiles in say, Mexico and Canada (leaving aside the obvious unlikelihood). We would already be close to war. Imagine the entire political system of the UK had collapsed less than 20 years ago, and that a new class of super rich had taken over most of the country's resources. Would the UK be a funtional, vibrant democracy (is it now?). Suppose Russia asked the US to extradite a suspect in a political murder enquiry. Do you imagine for a moment the US would comply? Never mind that the Russian constitution forbids extradition. Is Russia really bound by sentimentality to supply its former colonies gas at below market prices? I sure Mr Putin's regime has many appalling points, but he didn't just unhinge the entire middle east in a flagrant attack of idiocy. Two choices: gas and oil from Russia or our pals in OPEC. Which would you like? Do we really want to ostracize Russia thereby encouraging a nationalistic response? Not me.

Nick Black, Berkeley, US

Isn't it ironic that the West always seems to end up on the "OUTS" with Russian dictators whose last names end with "IN" -- as in Lenin, Stalin and Putin? Just an observation.

Bob, St Louis, Missouri USA

I suppose Blair had to tell Putin in no uncertain terms that
Britain found the killing of one of its citizens by "three men
from Russia" unacceptable, that after all the poison that
killed him originated in Russia. I'm sure the Russian must
have been stung by this. But as to Russian behavior with
regard to its own citizens and its neighbors in the European
community, Putin probably laughed it off, since much of it
is for domestic reasons (the upcoming elections) and just
the way Russia does business. Remember the Rapallo
Treaty and the Molotov-Ribbontrop pact?

Old Nick, New York, NY/USA

So Russia's argument is "how dare you develop a system that would prevent our missiles landing in your territory. How about only stopping them going into countries beyond Azerbaijan instead and leaving Western borders open to our missiles if we decide to send them your way?".

Why should any country respect the 'right' of a neighbouring country to be able to get a missile into or across your borders without permission?

If Russia wants a missile shield to protect it's borders I doubt the West would complain since we dont need to shoot in their direction. Russia's objection to a missile screen suggests that they were hoping to fire a few missiles at Western targets in the near future however.

The alternative is to maintain tha status quo of nuclear deterrent, this at least offers an alternative that is defensive and has no offensive potential other than to de-tooth incoming missiles. I would think that Israel needs this defensive system as much as Europe does though.

Zippy, Leeds, UK

As long as we in democratic nations, Russia included, share the common enemy of militant Islamic extremism, a new cold war is anything but inevitable.

The simple reality is that no matter our differences, none of the nations that participated in the last two world wars have the least desire to go at it against each other again.

There will always be jockying for influence or economics, but in the end we will rally to defend democracy.

Jeff Chartier, Minneapolis, USA

The US and its allies invaded Iraq on a pretext, and an attack on Iran may be on the cards, yet we are told that the world is worried by Russia's behaviour.

As for human rights in Russia, if Tony Balir is worried about them, I wonder why he is not troubled by the behaviour of certain allies of the west. As Anatole Kaletsky pointed out in The Times earlier this week -

"On human rights and extrajudicial assassinations, Russia’s record may be deplorable, but its abuses pale in comparison with those of Western friends such as Saudi Arabia and China, not to mention President Bush’s “boil them in oil” ally, Uzbekistan."

Christopher, London,

IF Mr. Putin is upset about America's treatment of Russia, perhaps he should instead focus on Russia's treatment of Iran. Propping up one's enemies is not the best way to make friends.

Rick, Atlanta, GA

Russia is supplying the USA's No. 1 enemy and a terrorist nation (Iran) with the technology to make nukes, the sizzler missile and other sophisticated weaponry. If Putin does not like an anti-missile defense system in former Soviet Union slave states, too bad. Zal.

Jeremy, San Diego, USA

The rivals of Russia should understand that the world can not do without Russia. It's too big to be ignored or pushed away. One can talk a lot about weaknesses of Russia's economy but the reality is that Russia is still migthy militarily and it's economic is on the run. Sooner or later it will be strong enough to again counterpose America on a global scale. Should it prefer to join China ( in a kind of a military alliance) then America's monopoly on a global dictate would be challenged. The western powers need to understand one simple thing - do not teach Russians what and how they should live. One has to think about the threats world terrorism is bringing to the people of Earth. Better to see a friend in Russia's face than to push it out of the European community and talk nasty things about Russia. Russian were deprived of democracy for at least 100 years and now they are learning the rules of democracy but it takes time. Be patient. Russia will change for the better with time.

Oleg, Moscow, Russia

The naivety of the American government is that Russia would ever succumb to democracy in the first place. Fact is the end of the first cold war- Russia was practically bankrupt and the country was divided and its people dissillusioned could not defect fast enough into political asylum. Becoming a "democratic society" would simply allow the Russian government time to rebuild and re-enter the world economy by lifting the iron curtain that had little or no respect in the world market. Besides, China was waking up, stretching, yawn and rubbing their eyes- by seemingly allying with America, China posed no threat. A clever rouse to be certain- Americas arrogance became their truest ally. Now we are face to face with Cold War 2. This comes as no surprise to me. Russia has now in fact, regrouped and they more "friends" than ever- we are losing ours left and right. This is why we are a joke to the entire world.

Darrell Kern, Beverly Hills, CA, USA

Putin is an old line Communist who has tried to make himself palatable to the West, and failed. What makes him dangerous is that he knows that he has failed to fool Western leaders that he is a democrat who wants to reform his country. As a result, he has discarded any pretense at being a reformer and has set Russia on a path of domestic repression and confrontation with the West. He seeks to confront the West to focus attention away from his return to Stalinism. He will pursue this policy until he is challenged by the World's leaders and his country is shunned economically. The only thing he fears is the possibility that Russia's economy will implode as a result of economic sanctions and the Russian people will revolt against him for this reason. As long as he can selectively employ terror and assassination to control his political enemies, he will succeed. If a majority of the Russian people blame him for an economic downturn, he will be finished.

Patrick Curry, Irvine, CA

Bullying the Germans and the Russians at the same time will not work. It never worked before and to keep Poland in the past of its history will not lead to a future. It is Poland which has to overcome its fears and feelings. Germany and Russia are Polands next big neighbours. There is no use to be the sword of the UK and the tail of the USA. A tail is unable to wag with the rest of the dog! The twins lead Poland into a future mess. And who is Czechia? An ally to whome? Come on, play it cool this time. We are not on the edge of an European war anymore. What does Poland has to offer? What has Czechia has to sell? As long as you are going to stay friends with your neighbours you don't have to think about that. But do you believe that any US troops will ever die for you? Come on - let us be friends. It is so wonderful to have friends around.

Dirk R Bode, Hamburg, Germany,

What is the matter with you people who are against this? It is a missile SHIELD. A defensive weapon - not used for attacking anybody - just to protect against incoming missiles - most notably from Iran or North Korea. Why should Putin fear a defensive measure? Perhaps he has plans to try and restore the old Soviet Union policies and will have a tougher time if we can defend against his aging missile stocks - which knowing Russia may or may not work anyway.

Jeff, Hilton Head, SC, USA

Everyone relax and take a deep breadth because this missile defense system is never going to happen. We are broke. We’ve spent all our money on Iraq. Congress will never appropriate the money for this Bush boondoggle. We Americans would rather see the money spent on healthcare and jobs. Hang in there with us. Georges last day is 1/20/2009.

Tom, Chicago, IL/USA

The world fears George and Tony much more than Vlad, who towers over both as a statesman. Is he a good guy? The ghost of Anna Politkovskaya knows better. But if the West starts a dogfight with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization the resultant fiasco will dwarf Iraq.

craig, dallas, US

Excuse me,but a year ago it was disclosed that the USSR had detailed maps of everywhere in Britain,better even than the Ordance Survey ones.Now,it's obvious that the Russians where going to use the maps for peaceful purposes,isn't it ?

Dave Richards, London, UK

To Peaky's comments: if Europeans had responded to the Nazi's with diplomacy after the fall of Poland, France and all of Western Europe instead of ordering U.S. bats, Europe would be a singular German-speaking continent today.

For God's sake Europe, wake up and grow some chest hair. Russia holds heating resources hostage, points nuclear missiles at your cities, and kills dissidents with impunity. How's is that diplomacy approach going so far?

Don't fret, we still make Louisville Sluggers here in States. Otherwise, might I suggest you order Rosetta Stone's 'Learn Russian the Easy Way' DVD.

Joe, Islandia, NY

a question is not " is the missile defense dangerous to Russia? ", the question is "how can we trust you now?". A military infrastructure of the USA near our borders now. The USA despise international law and rights of peoples. EU has lost the self-esteem and hopes only for the USA in all international questions. Russia has to stay independent in international questions, and wait when another independent countries such as China, India, Brazil will become more strong. Then we will be able to construct the multipolar world.

Sturnus-Zaurals, NS, Russia no ne vasha

Leon Wolf Fainstadt epitomizes what is wrong with the world and America today. A fringe core feel we are at fault for everything that happens under the sun.

Bush #1 didn't owe Russia anything, we didn't owe them anything. Aid is something we choose to do, we don't have to do it.

Putin is rushing head long back to communism because that is all he knows. He was in the KGB and his roots tend to lead him toward totalitarianism.

The west hasn't caused Russia to slip back, Putin has!

Rob, Charlotte, NC / USA

Oh, yes, and Tony Blair. Very good to hear that he told the guy off! Yes.
Vlad Putin has just been having way too much fun with his power trip.
It's time to give this guy a pair of glasses.

MLuigi23, Oregon,

Russian fear of a minimal defense against attacks from smaller, rogue nations is irrational. Too many people are taking this Russian reaction on face value. The new cold war has already started, and it is was not done in the west.

Barry, Auburn, usa/alabama

The ultimate goal is for Russia to kneel to the New World Order - championed by the USA and the West. It will either dance to the tune playing or it will be encircled by NATO and other military/political powers and brought down to its knees by force. Why do you think NATO is setting up bases in virtually all the X-USSR countries and paving the road to do the same in the Middle East...look at how a python wraps around its pray. Russia will be chocked from the outside and ultimately fall in its place. All the rhetoric about democracy and human rights is propaganda. I can assure you that we in the US are loosing more rights every day and if the world thinks that the US is still a democracy, don't kid yourself. Ultimately, Tony is doing his duties - not as the prime minister of the UK, but as the representative of the New World Order.

Dale Wilson, Dallas, Texas

So Russia screwed up their own country and the USA is to blame? It's like Mexico blaming the US on their own troubles.

Yet, as bad as we are, the whole world wants to emigrate here - that my friends illustrates that the USA is the BEST country in the world, and our policies make it so.

If you think the US has such bad policies, either get out, or don't come here in the first place!

Eric, Eagan,

why would a missle defense system be threatening?

Ken Becker, Hendersonville, TN/USA

Two George Bush's and one Bill Clinton have certainly wasted a great opportunity here haven't they? When USSR fell we could have initaited a Marshal Plan that would have helped the people of Russia and created a stable, west friendly partner. Instead, Bush-Clinton-Bush let Russia founder until the people got so fed up that they decided to bring back they're Communist rulers. It's been nearly thirty years of tough sledding and Russians they are tired of it. Smacks of what happened in Germany after WWI. The world allowed Germany to founder for a couple of decades and then Der Fuhrer used all those years of despair and anger to create the third Reich... Yes, Russians are upset and they are rallying behind somone who says that Russia will be great again. Watch out...

Donald K, Detroit, MI, USA

Why some people don't love the USA and EU? You think, because it is free countries. I think no. Then why? Think about it my western friends. May be, because you are wrong sometimes?

Sturnus-Zaurals, NS, Russia no ne vasha

In all honesty, I felt more at home in St Petersburg , Nizhny Novgorod and Moscow than I did in New York, Los Angeles and Detroit. Detroit especially is almost as frightening as the new Johannesburg. Though I am sure things might be different in the smaller American towns, I found these three cities brutal, loud and alien whereas Russians seemed to be ordinary but sentimental Northern Europeans with some beautiful architecture , especially churches. To the Americans we say "Please place your missile systems or anti-missile systems nearer your homeland like eg Venezuela, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Chile etc. where I am sure your efforts will be welcomed.

Marco Borg, London, United Kingdom

Think about it ... Putin is close to leaving office; his pathetic attempts at economic "expansion" have resulted in the strong-arming or state sanctioned theft/expedient demise (including murder) of western business/expatriates/rivals/Oligarchs; the military is in a shambles and can't account for a number of their own nukes - technology stolen from the west (thank you, Mr. Ruthless Stalin and our own left-leaning invertebrates); Soviet era technologists freelance to countries/entities that most self respecting humans find repulsive; etc. Point is, Putin’s drowning in political failure and desperate to salvage whatever he can - in short, an egotistical maniac looking for his historical epitaph – a real Napoleon Complex. If Putin’s actions are an example of the Slavic vs Western mindset/cultural nuances as referenced by Alice in Moscow, then maybe Russia should once again revert to its historical paranoia-induced isolationism until it can learn to play with all the other boys and girls!!

Mr. K, Ft. Wayne, USA

Russia is not the only emerging market and as much as Putin criticises the west, Russia is more than happy to accept the help of western businesses in creating effective infrastuctures for economic development and trade.

gabrielle, london,

The problem with Bush is not that he is too cold to Putin but that he is too warm. Blair has it right and sees through the commie. Too bad most Brits do not appreciate what a really courageous leader they have/had.

edward sonner, Chiang Mai, , Thailand

Why would anyone trust a former KGB agent any more than a former CIA agent?

Art Lyon, Ocala, Florida

Yes, let's follow the advice of a former KGB agent on the location of a missile defense system. Wouldn't system designers know where it will be most effective?

If there is another cold war, it will NOT be the result of the location of a missile defense system. Nationalized industries, a state run press, support for rogue regimes (Iran), and the Russian people trading short term gain for their freedom will continue to push Russia away from the west.

MP, Indianapolis, IN

Predictable. Unfortunately.
Russia is following a dangerous path. Iran, North Korea and Islamic Fundamentalism are all threats, but none of them is strong enough to challenge democracy and human rights. Russia on the other hand, is. Furthermore Russia is a country with little freedom of press, and no tradition of democracy and human rights. And its civilisation is at best a second rate facsimile of Western Europe.
Shame, Russia has a great potential, the people are friendly and intelligent . If they could overcome their stubborn pride and join in the European partnership and European ideals, they could become a great and free nation. As it stands now they are a bunch of grumpy old men, remembering with joy a time when Russian “pride and dignity” was built upon the backs of corpses slain by the Communists.

William, Oslo, Norway

Russia is really a country headed by autoritarian government. No opposition, no freedom of speech BUT that was the choice of russian peolpe who recognized the complete failure of democracy in this country. Russian mentality greatly differs from the european or american one and that determines the way of this country being governed for ages. If you carefully study the history of Russia you will notice that russians have been always demanding for a strong leader, realizing that the only way Russia shoud be governed is the one similar to Putin's. Financial support of the existing opposition comes from USA, as well as the chechen separatists are financed by american government. Russia is not a superpower but it is the main figure in the geopolitics of Eurasia and that is why everything possible is done for protecting it: strong authoritarian government, training rockets at military objects in Europe and supressing opposition and separatism both of which are aimed to undermine the stabilty.

Igor, St. Petersburg, Russia

Russia has always had an inferiority complex in regards to the West. From Czarist time through Communism to Putin today, Russia has seen themselves as a put upon red-headed stepchild.

For those of you that think this is only a recent phenomena I would suggest you read some Russian History and if you can pull yourself out of your pathological dislike of Bush and Blair, perhaps come up more informed and enlightened.

Bill Isenberger, Baton Rouge,LA, USA

Bravo Kelly and Ron! You're right - most people living in Europe are disgruntled. Then again, you would be too if you couldn't find work, were taxed at 40% and had to have Chirac tuck you in every night.

John, Maseru, Lesotho

America lost a great opportunity to help Russia when Bush Sr. was President. America watched as Russia twisted in the wind. There was no real effort at diplomacy while the Russian people struggled with long lines for staple food and clothing items. It really was no different than what we did in Afghanistan after Russia faltered. So who is really to blame. One thing about Russia, whose country suffered tremendously during Hitler's invasion, is the fact that they have long memories.
Putin is a strong leader and Russians always seem to want a leader who is strong domestically and internationally.
The New Cold War is upon us and Bush and Bush are to blame.

Leon Wolf Fainstadt, Los Angeles, Calif., USA

Hang on... the missle defense shield is for agh.. umm... DEFENSE! From Russia. Russia has somewhat of a history of dominating smaller nations nearby. And you would have the US merely stand by and not assist these weaker nations? Whatever. At least England is no longer able to occupy India and 3/4's of the world as it once did - although with some positive impacts (rule of law being at the top). At least Bush and Blair are standing up against rulers who rape and pillage their own citizens. Of course you won't hear that from the MSM. If Bush wanted to win a popularity contest, he could merely do whatever society demands, like John Kerry - now there's a winner! Thankfully he's above that. Good man.

John, Maseru, Lesotho

In appearance, there is currently serious conflict between Russia and Europe. However, in essence, that conflict is intentinally and skillfully created by USA, from which, USA will benefit most. Blair's response to Russia is absurd becasue it is only on behalf of Americans' benefit rather than Europeans' benefit.

This is a new conflcit created by States after the old one between "old Europe" and "new Europe.

Junhui Guo, Shanghai, China

Concerning the rockets:
1) Nobody knows what kind of reockets US will put into silos. Poland most likely will not mind, if otherwise Mr.Bush will not care anyway.
2) Assuming these are 'defensive' rockets. The debree will fall over Russia or East Europe. So, RF has a just interest that both Iran and US stay quite.
3, most important) Just many of your comments, not to say talks of West politicians or history (how many times Russia was invaded? - any time it looked weak) make russians to believe that we are inconvienient for you. West will always prefer to friendship just weaken Russia by supporting any distructive forse there is. In fact we are much worse than Iraq there you have build 'democrasy'. . .
So the only thing that garantees our lives and most important - freedom is the fact that even if US destroys in sudden mass attack or jams ore smhow else destroys most part of our missiles the rest will be enougth to cause back unacceptable damage.
We will never allow to change that!

Dmitry, russian, Juelich, Germany

Where you sit...is where you stand! I am not slavik....so, maybe the Slav's need to do their homework and better understand Anglo-saxon way of thinking....again, where you sit...is where you stand!

Steve, Austin, USA

joseph palazzo...do you read the newpapers...there have already been many successful tests.... just because canada lacks the technology to do this doesn't mean the rest of the world does too.

MS, old bridge,

david james....sitting nukes in cuba is different than sitting missiles designed to take down nukes in Poland...and knocking a missile carrying a nuke out of the sky doesn't cause the nuke to explode. hahahahaha. gimme a break.

MS, old bridge,

Alice,
Are you really that stupid? Do you think that Azerbaijan is a safer place to have a defense system based than Poland? Should the free world always roll over and cave to the interests of bullies and thugs?
Why didn't putin tell President Bush to put the missle defense system in Moscow instead? It would have made just as much sense. The Bush bashing around the world is far out of control but at least we know who the enemies of freedom and democracy are.

Ricardo, Jax, FL USA

- just can't see why we send a man who is on his way out of office to make decisions.-

Well Ken that could be because he is your Prime Minister .

steve , sunshine Coast, Australia

How about the slavs try to understand the anglo point of view. After all, anglo culture has been historically far more successful from an economics and quality of life perspective.

AB, ATLanta, GA

Anyone worried about our foreign policies?
Personally if I were Mr.Putin I would'nt trust us either!
And ain't it funny that this has all blown up when we are talking about replacing our own weapons of mass destruction?

Disgruntled Dorothy, Glasgw, Scotland

Russia is sliding back into a closed and iron fisted society. I think the comments that the west should have an understanding of the slav culture is nothing more than obfuscation. Russia is taking the wealth from the oil fields, starving the masses and building up a nuclear arsenal that they now see might be useless and they are scared. Who could possibly be afraid of a "defense" system if they did not have designs on attack? Thats like a 5th grade bully who's mad that the skinny kid took judo classes.

Don, Portage, MI., USA

There is too much anti-western feeling in Russian people and Putin has been keen to exploit this in state controlled media. It is a the legacy of Cold War and communism which portrayed West as "speculant" and encouraged suspicion. Any free press in Russia risks being killed. Any democratic opposition faces brute force from Putin the judo macho man. It is the job of the Russian people to wake up and embrace the west more and develop an interest beyond Sherlockk Holmes and Pink Floyd

Elena, Moscow,

The Russians are, just as the Soviets were, barbarians in suits. They understand power, how to acquire it, and how to use. To think that the Russians will ever have any type of liberal democracy assumes that the thugs in charge of the government, business, and criminal communities will allow it. We've already seen that these elements will not. We knew the Russians would come back, and come back they have. Get ready for a fun new generation of the Cold War revisited. r/ Bedrock Guy

BedrockGuy, Bedrock,

The world is in for a tough time with Russia. They are blocking Kosovo's independence; they are using oil and energy as political weapons (just wait until supplies to Western Europe are suddenly "disrupted"); they have limited nearly all opposition in their own country; and their suggestion of using Azerbaijan as a base for BMD is nothing more than a suggestion that at first appears reasonable on the surface (see Pavel from St. Peterburg's comment) but that is technically unfeasible when attempting to track and intercept missiles. Let's not forget a campaign to silence and murder the opposition, whether it's through polonium poisoning or cracking down on anti-government riots. And people defend this country's actions? The US may not be perfect, but they do their best to promote democracy around the world (do your own fact checking) in sharp contrast to what is fast becoming a Soviet-style police state that crushes opposition in Russia.

a warning, salzburg, austria

Russia cannot afford a cold war let alone a hot one.
As far as Blair is concerned as a serial master of dissimilation on most subjects anything he leaks that may or may not have been said should be taken with a bucket full of salt.
America would be wise however to promote dialogue with Russia allowing for the fact that Russia has never been or ever will be run as a western democratic clone due to its historical roots.Russia ,post soviet, needs its voice heard and talking is infinitely preferable to confrontation at whatever level.

philip, Ipswich,

We have been more apprehensive of what Tony Blair has done to the very essence of our society.

Our liberal democracy has been usurped by his dictatorial style of government.

He has duped the Cabinet, presented dodgy evidence to fool Parliament, introduced a high level of snooping, put his friend in high places to subdue any opposition and carry out what HE wants.
We have had little effective opposition from any quarter, including the Press.

In short, we have a dictatorship. Tony Blair was the threat.

K Urban, London, UK

Stalin was from Georgia. Which is now a Nato ally. Russia has vast natural resources that the big business west would love to get for pennies on the dollar. Like cheap labor from Mexico &, Africa ,then have the layed off workers families bear the brunt of the social costs of these tactics. If you arn't in the top 1 % of wealth then you lose big in globilization. Russia is still a superpower . But the global folks would love to neutralize them so they can steal that natural wealth like during Yeltsin ( a Clinton stooge).

Facts are Facts, Dallas, USA/ Texas

Wiktor, for information on the intervention in Russia, see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allied_Intervention_in_the_Russian_Civil_War

Speaking of aiding and abetting imperialism, I cannot believe you folks are permitting the US to install missle systems which cannot help but threaten Russia.

Fred, Chicago, US

The Photograph heading your article has got to be Tony Blair telling fisherman's tales (again), Putin looks suitably amused.

simon, leeds, u.k.

"Who are you going to trust, the Americans or the Russians? There is no debate on this one", CS, Sussex, UK

I thrust the Neocons to turn the rest of the world into an armed camp in the mistaken belief that this will protect the homeland

Mikhail Gorbachev, London, UK

Good for Mr. Blair. It is tragic to read the anti-West hating self-loathing blah blah. The left is silent in their protests to the obvious lack of free speech by individuals and of the press in Russia or Venezuela or in the Middle East. Your silence is telling and you do not have the moxy to defend liberty. God forbid you leftists were ever allowed to defend your citizens from an enemy abroad.

NavyDog, Atlanta, USA

C.S. asks who would I trust, the Americans or the Russians ? Vladimir Putin or George Bush. Hmmmmmm ? Vladimir may lie on occasion but George Bush has been caught lieing too many times. I am a American, but I guess I would have to vote against the proven offender.

K.S., Fort Pierce, U.S.A.

You people are unbelievable. Let's see..blame everything on the US - every other country in the world are just victims. I would give anything if the US could just take care of its own and leave the rest of the world to the rest of you guys - none of you would be living - your parts of the world would be destroyed. JUst give it time and then see who your begging to come to your aide. I am so sick of the "It is all America's fault" - we didn't ask for this trouble, it came looking for us. Get over yourselves and start standing up for yourselves. A lot of Americans think you are whiny, irresponsible, incapable of smart thinking, place the blame on someone else countries and your actions scare the hell of us. Good ridens and God help your countries.

Kelly, Indianapolis, US

America thought it won the cold war but look back now and its the other way around. America has nothing and has resorted to attack legitimate countries to get what it needs for its energy needs. What Bush has done is reveal the ugly mask of what America has been living with. America is setting the pieces for a showdown for the domination of the world.

Russia, it knows is the true contender for that post with its huge amount of resources. This is an another sell of like the Alaska sell off that Russia did in the 19th Century.

Vladimir, Moscow, Russia

I have taken the time to read this board. I see very narrow minded views and I also see that some people (Alice) think we have already turned down the proposal by Mr. Putin. Honestly, you need real unbiased media and not the state controlled crap you are fed. The U.S. has turned nothing down. One more thing, you need to count yourselves grateful for the U.S. Russia, Europe and the entire free world would be a cess pool of slavery and authoritarian autocracy if not for my country. Much of our blood has been spilled over the last century for your freedoms that are now being stripped away from you. You believe in this Soviet Empire? Come, come now. You will one day have your great Soviet Empire again and you will rue this day for a long time. Your cirumstances in good ole Russia is changing and not the way you would want it changed I might add.

Ron, Little Rock - USA, Arkansas

I do not understand when Mr. Blair argued that British companies basically should leave Russia because Russia is non democratic country. I wonder does that mean that British companies in China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Lybia should leave these countries because they are non democratic countries.
Mr. Blair would you just stop talking nonsense. Typical British hypocrisy.

Tomo, Tokyo,

"Tony Blair told Vladimir Putin yesterday that the world was becoming more and more afraid of Russia’s behaviour at home and abroad."

Well here's one part of the world, very right-wing, which thanks God for Vladimir Putin. It may very well be Russia's iron fist that induces America and the UK to once and for all take their PROPER place in the world.

Long live Russia, and long live Holy Orthodoxy.

Tom Ciciero, Littleton, CO

In reply to Eric V: the difference between Europe and the US arises from history. In Europe we know that bats can be used for hitting heads as well as baseballs. And our neighbours (good and bad) are very close indeed. The German invasion of Poland took only a matter of hours, triggering the Second World War. We Europeans would rather negotiate with, and understand, our potential enemies. More bats and balls (do they call them a 'surge' in the US?) are not going to resolve conflict.

Peaky, Cheshire, UK

Also , to people here pining for communisim, have you people ever bothered to study any History, Russia is not some innocent little country being bulleyed by the west.
her history is one of violence, oppresion, torture and state sanctioned murder. both home and abroad.

Do you apologists think the USSR expansion was stopped because they suddenly became nice? or because they came up against a strong, well equipped and trained opponent in the west?

Ask the people over 60 of Poland , Czech and Slovak republic and the numerous ex soviet states about there if you can not be bothered to read a book, they might open your eyes but probably not.

steve , sunshine Coast, Australia

Blair helped George Bush kill 650,000 people, destroy a society for generation, indeed a society that was the most advanced in the Arab world, and it is Putin who is the threat?

The man is leaving office in what can only be called disgrace. His almost every policy a failure or bad judgment.

Tony Blair is simply off his rocker. Perhaps, he's spent too much time sniffing at Bush's heels, taking the odd dog yummy, to make any sense anymore.

John Chuckman, Toronto, Canada

"These are DEFENSIVE missiles, they only shoot stuff out of the sky"

Assuming they actually work, deployment of such a system disrupts the current balance of terror. The only response is for the other side to deploy similar weapons. Putting them in countries right next to the Russian border is also dumb. Calling them DEFENSIVE is disingenuous in the extreme. Assuming their is a military standoff between Russia and the US, how long would it take to convert the missiles.

The Bushs Administration strategy seems to be to build a shield around fortress America and site this defensive perimeter as far from US soil as possible. The thinking being that this will keep the Home Land is safe. In reality it does no such thing and brings disruption to those countries co-operating in this task.

Dave, London, UK

The old Soviet Union bankrupted itself in an arms race with the West during Reagan's time. Russia appears to be getting ready to repeat history and bankrupt itself again. The Russian economy remains riddled with corruption, the standard of living is terrible and their military is a shambles.

So what is going on here? Perhaps it is th eold "external threat" to divert attention from internal failure- This kind of posturing another reason for a strong missile defense program.

Ned in Georgia USA

ned, macon, usa, georgia

This is not a real problem internationally. Putin is puffing and needs this rhetoric to dominate Russian and become another political Stalin. Currently, he has to step down from "power" in 2008. He doesn't want to do that and with his KBG background, as to how he thinks, he'll get the Russian Constitution changed and be in there forever. He needs this "missle" spiff to help him do just that.

Dick, Honesdale, PA

reserves of oil and natural resources do not make you a first world country. If so, the Arab oil states and Africa would not be a part of the third world. It is freedom, democracy and other factors that determine a nations prosperity. Putin has taken Russia backwards in his attempt to consolidate power. He is Hugo Chavez on a grander scale.

Robert Ray, Clovis, CA, USA

Who are you going to trust, the Americans or the Russians? There is no debate on this one.

CS, Sussex, UK,

"the world" i,e. america better stop lieing then we will see how the cold war can be avoided.the world does not belive "the world" any more

dedesertman, london, england

The USSR has taken a breath and will soon be ressurected.
Bill Maher is dead and all Christians no this to be true.
Micheal uses the term "Hollywood Star" rather loosely when he refered to Bill, I think" Hollywood Has Been" is more like it.

Greg Goff, Mansfield, Missouri/USA

It has nothing to do with Slav/Anglo or Christian/non-Christian. It has everything to do with trust. Russia is and has been supplying weapons and possibly other tech to China, N. Korea, Syria, Iran and now Venezuela. If the Russians have access to any missile defense system, they cannot be trusted to keep from selling its tech to those nations. It is guilt by association. The west and especially the USA cannot allow this tech to get in the hands of the Russians or the above listed nations. The locations suggested by Pres. Putin would practically hand it to them on a silver platter.

Scott, Atlanta,

Why do nations bicker and fued continuously since the beginning of history.....look back 100 yrs ago, not one world player is alive today....what's it matter?? Is there some force in this world that prevents harmony?? Big egos, big wars, big words, what it all come to?? nothing! I prefer living my life for the next life and letting the world go to hell.....

Tom, Shoals, USA

After a conflict lasting longer than WWII, the U.S. still cannot control downtown Baghdad. "The most powerful nation in history" indeed!! Nail-biting time in Poland & the Czech Republic!

Louis Godena, Cumberland, Rhode Island

it's Blair's brain that has been in 'deep freeze' for a long time. He can't even see that it's Britain that people around the world are most afraid of -- Britain with its terrorists spanning the world and with its wackoes like Litvinenko. Even the US is more and more afraid of Britain. With friends like Britain, the US can hardly afford to have any enemies.

But i doubt that Britain will change for the better much when Blair's very undemocratically appointed successor comes to power. He is even uglier than Blair for starters.

Elijah, Moscow,

I have seen enough democracy lately in Russia. Main stream press accounts of the opposition beaten into submission and then jailed during the recent elections. Reports both in Moscow and St. Petersberg.

Putin, friend and champion of Islamic terrorists. Yea, a real friend of the West.

And that missle shield offer to be placed in Azerbaijan......
Lets see.............Putin controls the radar that's already in place. Incoming missle from Iran........who has the switch?

No, can't trust him. He is already proving his distain for the West by robbing and looting the Western oil companies that built his recent economy and tearing down the democratic changes the West was helping improve life in Russia.

When the West came in to help Russia, 15 years ago, the people were eating molded bread (if they could find bread) and digging rotten potatoes out of the ground.

Where is the thankfulness for the help the West gave, in the billions?

Steve, Wilmington, S.C. USA

I'll never understand, as a conservative, why the USA would want an independent Kosovo, one of the points of contention by the Russians, Why did Clinton ever bomb Serbia on behalf of the KLA, which is a terrorist entity now being sponsored by the Saudis! We should side with the Serbs, who saved downed American pilots in WWII, not Islamic fanatics who will probably turn around and kill us some day. Why criticise Russia for its dealings in Chechnya, which is another Islamic hornets nest?

KrsnaDas, Sharon, NH

Interesting that a person from Moscow would say that Putin "offered" Azerbaijan. Its not Russia’s to offer. The U.S asked and these now free countries accepted to allow a radar station to be built there. How is a radar in Turkey going to catch missiles from North Korea? The US has been offering to share this with Russia. Everyone in the world knows this missile system would kill 4 or 5 missiles but in no way could it stop Russia’s massive nuclear arsenal. This is a fact already admitted by the US. With Russian supplying arms, nuclear material and knowledge, trade and protection in the UN to every nation at odds with the West its easy to see where this is going. Russian spy levels have been at cold war levels for years now in the USA. It wont be long before most of their oil money goes into their military and bread lines will be the norm again in Moscow. I think the West wanted to forget the cold war so bad we forgot what it was like. Putin is KGB and always will be.

William, Loxley, USA

I have travelled extensively through eastern Europe and saw how Soviets (as in Russians) "raped" the countries when they retreated with the collapse of the Soviet empire. My question is why is Putin so afraid of defensive positions in Poland, even when the west is willing to share the technology with the Russians - it should be remembered that these are defensive positions and not offensive missles. Does Putin have plans to invade Poland as the Soviet's invaded other eastern European countries in the past?

Luv-Outdoors, Houston, TX

Russia (unlilke the USA/UK) has a history of being invaded by foreign powers and as a result has suffering greatly. (20 million dead in WW11 alone) How the USA/Bush/Neocons can think that by moving armed forces and missiles into the vacuum created by the countries Russia has withdrawn from, thus encircularing the country can make a major contribution to world peace totally escapes me. The US and its allies are doing to Russia what they did to Iraq (prior to invasion) and are doing to Iran. I personally applaud Putin in standing up to Bush for his countries integrity, as it would appear no other so called global leader is prepared to do so! I would also point out that democratically elected Putin is probably one of the most popular Russian presidents his country has ever had, something the democratically elected buffoons Bush & Blair will never be able to claim, perhaps this may be because he has his countries best interests at heart, unlike the other assembled posers as at G8!

Kevin Sullivan, London, UK

I do not think that US posters have moral credit to give lectures. Their power mad government has become a synonym for dishonesty, corruption, oppression, murder and torture. It is good that the world is restoring at least some balance.

goran vukovic, Canberra, Australia

Who is trying to fool whom?

Israel has enough nuclear missiles to obliterate the whole of of the mid-east ten times over then why is there a need for more missles? Iran can be neutralised within minutes by Israel.

Obviously there is an alterior motive and guess what that is?

Gorby, Vladivostof, Russia

As an American, I am disappointed that Bush would choose to place this missile shield in a country that Russian opposes. We should be working with the Russians, not against them. The Slavic culture has been right about a lot of things, i.e. global warming, weather patterns, etc. They are brilliant scientists and thinkers. Shame on America for always thinking we're right. Let's hold hands with the Russians and try to work together. We have much to offer them in medicine and they likewise in science. Besides, who are we to tell them how to run their country? When will stop being the world's police force and mind our own matters? The long-term cost to the West is much higher with this sort of pompous arrogance. I am with Putin on this issue.

Joey, Dallas,

The West has no need of moral high ground in its dealings with Russia. It is only military superiority that works with these people as past experience has repeatedly shown.
Only the politically and historically naive would deny that democracy is light years away in this country.

Anthony, San Gwann, Malta

Most of the comments on this article have sub-literate, ungrammical nonsense. As Bronwyn Maddox recently wrote in the Times Russia is not an enemy, it`s power is fragile as it relies on the high price of oil. If the price of oil fell [or when it`s oil reserves are depleted} it is powerless. What she implies Russia is a capon.

Furthermore with the missile shield radar in Czech and the missiles in Poland it faces Iran not Russia. Just look at a map you dimwitted fools..

Denver Watt, Osakaj, Japan

Alice and Alex,
MR Putin hates the West, it does not matter what America does, he will always promote an ICE COLD atmosphere. He must, he needs to keep the Russian people under his control.For Putin, it isn't enough to be President and to uphold reforms, especially those reforms that were put into place because "The West" may have had something to do with it. To him that these reforms are an insult, no matter how good or practical they are. How else to appear strong except to do the opposite of what "The West "would do?

MLuigi23, Oregon,

If Russia did not help Iran gain nuclear prominence there would be no need for a European shield
There is no conventional Russian military worth worrying about. Yes Russia has nukes and so do we. It is a clear standoff. The only time a nuclear weapon was ever used was when the other side didn't have one.
Who cares if Russia is upset? They will not use such weapons because our response will be horrific. They can posture their plumage all they want. In the end they will do nothing but sell us oil at the highest price possible.
On the other hand Iran will use such weapons and we know it and so does Russia.

Anthony Sakal, Palm Beach Gardens, USA/FL

Tony Blair was always an ex-prime minister in my eyes.

John, London, UK

At this moment in time. Its the man with the "real stuff" that matters/
The real stuff is what turns the world around and its called "scarce resourcees" and And Putin and countrymen are sitting on it. Blair's predecessors had their day in the sun and he is the last [along with Bush] to make believe its still Disreali days.

Personal memories of Mr. Blair will always be recalled as the man who invoked the words "Saddam Hussein has the capability to nuke London , Washington and Tel Aviv in a matter of 45 minutes". A sad example of a socalled statesperson.

armand de laurell, little rock,

I beg to differ with my Russian counterparts. Russia has ABSOLUTELY nothing to worry about. We have been trying to be allies of Russia for 16 years. You keep promgulating the idea that this government is hell bent on defeating the "slavs" as you put it. We are not. If russia wants to join in the missile shield as a partner I 100% for it. But dont turn around and slap us in the face for wanting to protect our allies in Europe and the UK. We are not trying to protect NATO from a NATO member. As far as the Atomic Bomb senario from WWII you "always bring up in these affairs. Shall I remind my comrads in in Moscow that 100 Million were slaughtered under Stalin, Lennin, and others in secret. When we in the west ,( while fighting to end a war) use as much force as prudent; are the most scrutinized after the fact. Russia, China, Iran, Syria, N. Korea do it without ANY of the same standards placed on their actions that are paced on the west. We face reprecussions with our actions- do you?

Patrick, Cincinnato, USA/ OH

I just can't see why we send a man who is on his way out of office to make decisions. He surely cannot have any credibility.
I suppose any "bad" decisions stay with him and do not besmirch his successor.

Ken Wyatt, Todmorden, UK

Guys, ans what about Mr. Bush's behaviour in Irak? where are the mass destruction weapons? any one has seen them? Bush and Blair started this never-ending war in Irak, what for? Oil? and even so, they try to teach Mr. Putin how to rule and what to do with Russia? i think they have no rights at all to do so.

Manuel, Moscow

Manuel Avalos, Moscow,

JB from Tomsk: Correct me if I am wrong, but it was Bolshevik Russia that started the aggression of the Polish-Bolshevik war. Which ended in 1921. Please do tell what kind of hostilities are you talking about that supposedly took place in 1924.

Also, what expedition armies were supposed to be operating in Siberia in the twenties? Care to point to any sources?

Cheers from the meaningless state of Poland. Enjoy your strife for imperial power, but do be careful not to choke on it.

Wiktor, Gdańsk, Poland

The Cold War is heating up again... and I thought it was over... and so did the rest of the world!?! So what gives?

On the other hand, why am I not surprised that Bush, the most incompetent President in the last one hundred years, is screwing that one up!!!

Let's hope that Putin's coming visit to the US will breathe some cool air into this mess.

BTW, President Bush, a missile defense shield system is like trying to gun down a bullet with another bullet fired from a second gun. The physics behind tells you it won't work. So why bring this system into Europe, at Russia's doorstep? Why? Why? Why?

joseph palazzo, Laval, Canada

Very funny:
"Tony Blair told Vladimir Putin yesterday that the world was becoming more and more afraid of Russia’s behaviour at home and abroad."

Should have read "Vladimir Putin told Tony Blair and George Bush yesterday that the world was becoming more and more afraid of Britain's and America's behaviour at home and abroad."

Duane, Ottawa, Canada

My friends in Moscow, you need to get of Putin. The West is not causing your problems. There is nothing but good ahead if we can get rid of these ex-Soviet dinosaurs. More trade and cooperation than you can imagine. You have nothing to fear from a missile defense system that is clearly intended and capable of disabling a small number of ICBM's coming from a rogue Middle Eastern state (read Iran). So, what do you say? Let's call all of your spies back home (we will do the same, for the most part, until we stop seeing Polonium poisonings), give them something useful to do, and let's go make some money together?

Andy, Paoli, PA

It amazes me how differently Europe/California thinks then the rest of the US and Eastern Europe. These are DEFENSIVE missiles, they only shoot stuff out of the sky. What the hell is wrong with protecting ourselves and our friends from Iran, and N Korea? If you were my neighbor and you were throwing baseballs at my windows, I would use a bat to defend my windows... or is it ok to break your windows in europe?

Eric V, Indianapolis, USA

Tony Blair is correct to express worries about a Russia under Putin that is massively arming Syria and Venezuela, enabling Iran's nuclear ambitions and suppressing freedom at home.

Without its armaments industry and its sale of extractive products, Russia has nothing to sell to the world that is of any real interest

Putin is the direct spiritual descendant of the former Communist rulers of his country. In a nearly completely irrelevant non sequitor, Hollywood TV star Bill Maher uses this opportunity to express his preference for the godless (Communists presumably) to Christians. That tells us more about Bill Maher than it does to explain why Tony Blair is worried about Putin.

Michael Usherq, Allentown, PA

the world does not believe "the world any more"

dedesertman, london, england

Now wonderful. Blaire threatens that British business will leave Russia if no turn to democracy is made. If he is serious about that, I wonder what the heck British companies doing are in Middle East and Libya. Maybe someone could tell me since when Saudi Princes are more democratic then Putin?

Oleg, St. Pete, Russia

Blair has shown himself once more to be a pathetic statesman and diplomat, incapable of either astute insight or more than trite sloganeering.
Putin may be ex-KGB (or whatever they're called now) but he runs rings around the West when it comes to strategy or diplomancy. He inherited a terrible economic situation from Yeltsin, that it is difficult to see how to remedy - will take time!
He's smart enough to see that the myth of 'free trade' or 'free enterprise' is simply a recipe for exploitation by the rich and powerful.
Communism may be dead, but that doesn't make capitalism the answer.
If you want real-politik - look at Putin's handling of the Kursk incident - another shameful provocation by the US!

Gerry Bell, Melbourne, Victoria

Excuse my ignorance, but isn't Putin on the way out? Maybe the next Russian leader won't be stuck with a cold war mindset.

Johh, Pattaya, Thailand

Russia and the US should be natural allies, but there are people in both governments who yearn for the old days of the Cold War. It meant that they did not have to think too hard, and that their budgets would never be cut.

GuyInCT, NYC,

Russia is a Third World Country when it comes to governing. Power usually resides in the hand of one person or a family for a long, long time. And a switch to democracy is usually accompanied with bloodshed. Russia, China, Cuba, Venezuela, Iran, and many countries in the Middle-East share the same type of government.

Paul in U.S.A., USA,

Russia is still coming to grips with the end of the Soviet empire. A quick glance at their borders shows how much influence they have lost and how much more exposed they are.

Having said that, the end of communism means that there is no good reason why Russia cannot be allied with the West. The main obstacle seems to be a continuation of cold war thinking and the thousands of nuclear missiles that both sides have pointing at each other.

Marek, London,

Tony Blair has no mandate to speak for the world. He should be worried not to end up for in International Criminal Court in The Hague some day. He, Bush and their neo-conservative handlers are the mayor league war criminals of our time. Nobody is afraid of Russia, only of the war mongers of the New World Order.

Joris Stuyvesant, Delft, Netherlands

But I suggest to remember about Hirosima and Nagasaki. This was more awful then history of KGB and Litvinenko.

Boris, Moscow, Russia

This trouble only began when Christians were allowed to have their say in Russia. Anywhere that weak-willed believers in some "higher being" (hah!) get any say in the running of things, let alone appearance in public at all, society is in big trouble.

Bill Maher, Beverly Hills, CA, USA

now that George Bush has signalled he is going ahead with the missile shield in Poland, despite Putin's offer of Azerbaijan as a base, he has truly thrown down the gauntlet and kick started the Cold War. What an opportunity he has lost, and we have him to blame for it entirely. Russia has the moral high ground on this.

Personally, I just think there is a complete lack of understanding between the anglo-saxons and the slavs. I would say it is the anglo-saxons that need to do more homework regarding how they think, vis a vis the Slav way of thinking.
Until they understand each other's cultural nuances better, this 'deep freeze' will not thaw anytime soon.

Alice, Moscow,

Actually, it's the last time when Mr. Blair meets Putin as PM... Critical rhetoric towards Russia ain't surprise. What else could he say after all? Even if british business leaves Russia, there gonna be germans and french who will get their niche. So, Mr. Blair is just making fuss over nothing.

Alex, Moscow, Russia

Herb - just in case you didn't realize, Russia has some of the biggest oil and gas reserves in the world. On top of that they have plenty of other tradeable minerals and goods. So Russia is economically no where near to 3rd world country, even if the poverty of the masses might suggest it.
I agree with Blair that developments in Russia are quite worrying and believe they will become one of the main dangers to world peace if they continue to intensify.

John, London,

Actually anyone who has been to Russia will tell you what nice people and what a nice country it is. Siting US missiles in Poland and the Czech Republic is similar to siting Russian missiles in Cuba 40 odd years ago, the fact that 80 per cent of the populations of these two countries are against it does not matter to Blair and bush.these missiles presumably will only benefit the USA as anything that gets shot down over Poland will leave Nuclear contamination in that country.After the disaster in Iraq who are Blair and Bush to dictate what,s foreign policy to anyone?

david james, gosport, UK

If the mighty retreat from treaties, the less fortunate will play foul. If the mighty start wars, the less fortunate will sit on the sidelines and throw stones in helpless dispair. You can reason with people when treated equal. The beaten are not dogs and not all dogs are beaten, but act one to survive.

SA, Santa Monica , CA

Anyone who thinks Russia is weak or easily bullied needs to catch up with reality. Russia controls the energy supplies of Western Europe, it still has a powerful military, and it has nukes, and it is not about to be pushed around. If NATO and the US try that, they are in for some big and unpleasant surprises.

Hal, Tucson, AZ

charles t. sherwin: Doubt that Russians care/worry much about Poland. No economic reasons for doing so. Poland has nothing to offer (and in fact never had), and therefore has no political power in the World. Polish twins should worry more about their people who escape massively to the UK in search for better life. As per Katyn should I remind you of thousands people killed in Siberia by polish expedition army in twenties? Or how Poles invaded west of Russia in 24th? Poland is not so innocent as its powermongers would like to represent it to transoceanic stakeholders – its newly found sponsors. Though I don't want to mix their elites and the masses.

JB, Tomsk, Siberia

Well, Russia does have 7000 deployed nuclear warheads (that is, they can be launched with the touch of a button) and about 6000 more nuclear warheads in storage, which can be deployed within minutes. I'd say, that gives them a little bit of clout, no matter what their economy looks like...

sydyusb sdy, washington dc,

Tony who?

aeskylos, North Tonawanda, United States NY

PUTIN is a leader that cannot be trusted. A former KGB
operative who was hand picked to take the rains of power
in Russia by its former leader. Putin is a person determined to wipe any and all opposition. Democracy
continues to regress in Russia and repression is the
order of the day. Putin is used to operating that way.
He is no friend of the USA.

Rick Ayala, Kirkland, USA Washington

Cliche Western fears!
KGB is neither better nor worse than CIA.
Where's the article about Putin's proposal of cooperation with the USA about anti-missle system in Azerbaijan? If Americans reject this offer we will surely know whom these anti-missles are against!

Pavel, Saint-Petersburg, Russia

The return of the Cold War?

DAWUSS, Indianapolis, IN/USA

Russia today is little more than a "third world" country.

Unless or until Russia gets their house in order....they
will not be a player in the new "globilization" of nations.

What do they have to trade?

Who wants Russian rubles ? :o)

Herb Morgan, Seneca, South carolina

With Russia's vast reserve of oil deposits, I dare say Mr. Putin can have as much policital and commercial business it wants with the world.

Al Ramsay, Halifax, Canada

Once KGB, always KGB.

Lee, Mayhill, New Mexico, USA

Remember when Russia and Germany divided up Poland and then the Russians killed all those Polish military? I'm sure Poland does; I'm sure that Putin does, and (they) are scared to death to give Poland ANY power. Kaitain Forest incident Stalin tries to pin on the Germans. Putin and Russia think Poland and its allies may divide up Russia as revenge...a Bolshevic is a Bolshevic first then a democrat.

charles t. sherwin, pittsboro nc, usa