President Putin called on the West yesterday to drop its “silly Atlantic
solidarity” if it wanted improved relations with Russia.
He accused America and some of the countries of the EU of harbouring outdated
Cold War attitudes that led to distrust, particularly on issues such as
energy security and trade. Such stereotypical positions were “absolutely
inappropriate” in the economic arena, he said, insisting that one source of
friction – Russia’s decision to build a pipeline bypassing Poland – was not
infringing anybody’s rights.
He also warned the West to stop giving Russia blanket lectures on democracy.
“We will participate in any debate with our partners, but, if they want us
to do something, they must be specific. If they want us to resolve Kosovo,
let’s talk Kosovo. If they are worried about nuclear programmes in Iran,
let’s talk about Iran, rather than talking about democracy in Russia.”
Neither would he take lectures over Russia imposing higher gas charges on
Ukraine after years of Western preaching about the need for market prices.
“If the West wants to support the Orange movement, let them pay for it. Do
you think we are idiots?”
At the same time, he sounded a more conciliatory note, sayinmg: “We in Russia
and you in Europe and the United States should be more patient. We should
not be faultfinding in our relations and we should look for positive things.
We should engage in friendly relations and support each other.”
He made his comments in a long and forthright session with Western reporters
at his holiday residence overlooking the Black Sea in Sochi and gave the
first inkling of his thinking about his successor and what role he saw for
himself after he leaves office in March next year. “I have no interest in a
weak president after me,” he said. His successor had to be “a
self-sustainable and efficient individual who will serve the people”.
But Mr Putin gave a blunt warning that he had no intention of leaving the
political scene. He was young and fit still, and wanted to continue serving
his country. “This will be a factor with which any future president must
reckon and we must agree how we will function.” He said that he would do
what he could to help his successor and he had no intention of allowing all
the achievements of recent years to be wiped away.
Mr Putin defended his authoritarian style, making clear that he thought a
strong president was essential for many years to come as the country had not
developed strong enough political parties for a Western-style democracy.
Otherwise, he said, there would be chaos. Even in Germany, the system could
misfire, as it did after the last election, and the Czech Republic, he said,
had been without a government for months.
Mr Putin said that, after he had stepped down, he would not disappear or take
up residence in another country. He loved his country and felt rooted to it.
But he all but ruled out any return to power for himself in 2012. “In 2012 I
hope to find a place where I will be comfortable instead of reading in the
Western press nasty things about becoming the new president.”
In a three-hour meeting, the fourth he has held with the same group of Western
academics and journalists, Mr Putin demonstrated an extraordinary grasp of
detail and statistics and ranged across domestic policy, Iraq, Afghanistan,
investment policy, macroeconomics and the future of the various political
factions in the Duma.
He began by defending his choice and timing of a new prime minister, which
stunned Russia this week, saying that he had to change the Government now
because people had begun to cast around for other jobs in anticipation of
change.
He said it was not his idea but that of Mikhael Fradkov, the former Prime
Minister, to dissolve the Cabinet and reform the Government under a
different leadership. Mr Putin praised both the outgoing Prime Minister and
his successor, Viktor Zubkov, who he said had a fine record of service. He
said the 65-year-old new Prime Minister might himself want to run for
president, just as Mr Putin did when appointed Prime Minister in 1999, but
he would first have to prove himself.
He spoke at length on the need to strengthen multiparty democracy in Russia,
saying that he would like to see a proper, modern, left-wing social
democratic party that could be an alternative to United Russia, the ruling
party, which supports him.
He did not see United Russia as a permanent party of government, but it was
vital in securing a parliamentary majority so that he and his successor
could enact necessary legislation. It was no use having only a “holdover
from the past, such as the Communist Party”, as the only real opposition.
Mr Putin also sought to quash Western fears that Russia would use its vast
foreign currency reserves, the result of the high oil price, to buy up vital
Western industries or undermine the Western economy. If there was any idea
that Russian would improperly invest in foreign economies, that was wrong.
He also told the United States that it should set a timetable for withdrawal
from Iraq as this would spur the Iraqi Government into meeting its own
security needs. Without a time-frame, he said, there would be no pressure
for the necessary political and security measures.
Overall, the President appeared remarkably confident about the legacy he will
leave and made much of the huge rise in living standards, in health,
education and housing, which he said most Russians saw as the key factors in
their lives. This, he said, was vital in creating a confident and stable
middle class, which must be the backbone of the new democratic Russia.
Alex, Moscow, Russia: you arguement is a version of
"moral equivalency", everyone is equal and capable of high moral choices. I certainly hope that America ALWAYS has a bigger and better military than anyone else in the world. Neither Russia in general, nor Putin in particular has shown that they are capable of understanding proper moral choices. I don't think that a country only recently freed from communism, on top of a naturally suspicious and somewhat paranoid culture has created a country that I am not ready to give a long leash to.
If you are wondering where I get my information, I spent 18 months in the former Soviet Union and I have been married to a Russian for ten years, among other things.
David, San Diego
David Van Slyck, San Diego, CA
Russian economic indicators are on par with Brazil. Life expectancy (read standards of living, the gap between rich and poor - ditto). How can Russia justify such a disproportionate increase in the military build up? Of course democratic countries are worried. Russia needs a good democratic conservative pro-market government to build national wealth, not a closed club of narrow minded and power hungry ex KGB villains.
Sergei Cristo, Surrey, UK
The west hasn't reduced jack Wayne. The US spends more money on its military than the rest of the world combined, but oh no, Putin dares upgrade his? Once Russia spends 1/5 as much money as the west trying to screw up the world, then you'll have a point.
Alex, Moscow, Russia
Andre, first of all, Putin flies his bombers in neutral zones and they are unarmed. It is merely exercise for pilots. The fact that you see that as posturing is your own paranoia. Many other nations do so. He has not cut off gas to any European nations that do not engage in vehement anti-Russian posturing and don't steal gas, like Ukraine had. I know, outrageous as it is, Russia has control over Russian resources, not Europe. Please forgive them for daring to be worried about the fact that the west has made it pretty clear they're gonna attack them once the cost of such a war can be outweighed by resource spoils as they thought would be the case in Iraq. The fact that you're claiming he has no soul says much more about you than about him.
Alex, Moscow, Russia
Russia ordered the Murder of Lithenenko in London by nuclear poisoning. I see nothing about that in the news anymore and Putin must be very happy.
Simon, Brighton, Sussex.
Maybe you don’t see that in the news anymore because there isn’t any tangible proof that Russia was behind it. An “educated guess†isn’t enough, unless we are talking about weapons of mass destruction.
Karl, Burlington, Ontario
Mr. Valtice from Czech republic, evev thou I am sorry for your terrible nightmares you should resist them on your own. We prefer to mind our own business.
SAGATEL, LOS ANGELES, USA
Has Putin been reading Haushofer?
Henry Barth, Dublin, Ireland
To Andre from Geneva and Edward Ogle from Florida,
The message Putin sends is aimed at people right you, who have a little or no idea about what's going on in Russia, or even outside of your own countries and live by "cold war stereotypes".
Long range bombers are flying now because North Alliance has been constantly moving East, towards Russia's borders, while Russia has been cutting down arms and following all the agreemets signed in times of Gorbachev. Those Eastern block countries that have been crying about Russian military presence after USSR collapse, now have NATO bases.
Gas going to Europe was shut down once because Ukraine was not paying for its own usage.
For those still insisting on high natural prices for Europe - wasn't the West pushing Russia towards market economy?
When I meet Russian students, they are proud to say that they are Russians. A couple of my friends have moved there and are making twice as much as they were here in NY. They are middle class
Greg, New York, USA
As a westerner who have worked and lived in Moscow, Russia since 1995, I want to make four comments:
(1)Understanding the heart of Russia and a Russian so much, I have to agree with president Putin's approach.
Western style democracy would have resulted in anarchy and wide-spread corruption. Reformation and change under Putin has truly been spectacular.
(2)Today Russians in power - both in the political and business fields - are truly very sharp. It would be a grave error to understimate them.
(3)If you make a Russian your enemy, you might be in for many sleepless nights. Make him your friend, and he will become the best friend you've ever had. Right now Russia is extending its hand of friendship to the West and I believe there is no hidden agenda.
(4)There isn't a Russian word for 'silly'. The word Putin used was 'stupid'.
Today world leaders can learn a lot from Putin: it is time for straight talk. Let's stop beating around the bush.
Hugo van Niekerk, Moscow, Russia
Does this mean that he will cease flying Jet Bombers off of our various Coastlines which he resumed.
We in the West have already greatly reduced our Strategic Military Arsenals since 1989 while on the other hand he has begun a process of rebuilding his nation's nuclear forces.
Wayne, Biloxi, USA/MS.
I'm inclined to agree. I don't believe Europe has much to fear from Russia, and would do well to engage in closer and more open relations. It would greatly enhance trade for a start.
It's long since time that Britain ended the US occupation of bases in the UK. They're part of the old cold war structure, and a barrier to closer ties with Russia and other former adversaries, with whom we have been building business and other alliances in recent years. The US presence is doing nothing positive for us, but dragging Britain into misguided foreign policies devised in Washington, or more precisely, the Pentagon, that only serve the United States.
With other US bases in the region such as Germany (and other countries that actually lost WWII), there is certainly no need for US troops and aircraft to remain on British soil.
We can remain close allies of the United States, and be close allies of Russia as well. Britain would lose nothing.
Mark, Hong Kong,
Interesting that Putin is interested in building a strong middleclass,where as here in the USA Bush appears intent on tearing it down. Who is the democracy again??
STEVE, MIAMI BEACH, USA
to Brian Williams, Houston, Texas
_______________________________________________
to compare different goverment systems you also can live a few years in Iraq and check the system your country installed in Iraq.
Actually Russia now is country of unlimited capabilities for everybody who are acting and workable. Our goverment system is far to perfect of course, but permanently is improved.
Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia
I think Putin has many salient points. The West and especially the USA has to give Russia a break and treat Russia with equal respect. If NATO's sole function is opposiing Russia, it should be scrapped at a new security structure created that includes Russia and more countries, preferably under UN security Council Control. Are we not silly in not looking for common purpose and links. England play Russia in Moscow next game and athletes compete in a friendly manner in in the world games. Lets change the future international dynamics. We are at a crossroads again and can choose a pointless cold war of divide and uncertainly, or a future of tolerance and improving ties all round. Russia is a big player and needs to be a positive and stable force in the world. Trading with a friend is better than trading with "projected" distrust. Lets give Russia a chance. Scrap NATO and create new Security, , Economic, Trade and Environmental structures that includes Russia rather than excludes Russia.
Dave Oliver, London, UK
Why not just bring Russia into the EU Mr Putin? I'm sure it is an organisation that could learn a lot from you. Just ask Gerhard.
Mike Poulsen, Reading, Berkshire
West will have very powerful enemies soon enough to start thinking about making some powerful allies, Russia actually wants to be an ally.
Vlad, Sydney, Australia
The key word in President Putin's speech is "support".
We see here, the germ of a much larger idea that invites pragmatic collaboration. Finding common ground encourages trust and increases the likelihood of success. We move beyond the "problem areas" with their immense direct and indirect costs.
Mr. Putin's game is synergistic and his agenda is devoid of doublespeak. Frankly, we must ignore the symbols of the past to focus on the essence of our present and future relationship.
Griffin, Middlewood, UK
Putin enjoys much greater record of improving the lives of Russian citizens than that of any Western thinker, consultant or politician. That's a fact. So, he has a substance to lecture. The West has no proof of moral of political superiority in the post cold war world. The last fifteen years were an endless chain of failures in Western stance towards the rest of the world starting from Gulf War I up to a full catastrophy in Iraq. You still believe that Western leaders can lecture anybody?
Rino, Tver, Russia
Now, with all of the preceding brilliant and inciteful comments everyone has written here with regard to the logic of Mr. Putin, it is apparent that Mr. Putin has consideration not only for Russia but also for the other countries of the world. Why can't the leadership in Washington take a 'giant leap for mankind' and understand that they have created chaos in many countries of the world, subsequently forcing world leaders to take more aggressive actions to protect their own countries. The selfish depravity of the existentialist authoritarian 'man' in the White House has pushed us into a war in Iraq, begun a new cold war with Russia, alienated and threatened Iran, etc. ad nauseum. Praises to Mr. Putin for for being the intelligent clear-thinker that he is. If only Washington would become realistic about what the Constitution had planned out for America in 1776, and stop re-writing it to conform to their own selfish, greedy, money-oriented appetites.
Frank, San Diego, CA
Not only does Putin say nice words, he acts as he says. I am glad that russian people have a president that they are all proud of.
Tim, DC, USA
I think our President Bush needs his vision checked . When he looked in Pooty-Poots eyes and saw his soul , he missed the Stalinist looking back .
Kent Benson, Middleton, Idaho, U.S.A.
There is one thing certain about Communism and old communist, whatever they accuse others of doing - you can bet your last penny they are doing it themselves. The US advanced Russia billions of dollars to help them out of the communist economic hole they had dug for themselves, other advanced industrial nations did the same. This is what we get for hoping for an improved Russian relationship with the west - it isn’t going to happen as long as Russia maintains such foolish attitudes.
Edward G Ogle Sr., Orange Park, USA / Florida
To G.Washington, Lock Haven, USA
A bit more responsibility in what you say, please. Totally empty and silly allegations. What do you mean 'do not have a clue about anything'? They do have clue and much more useful than the man you trying to defend!
Alex, London, England
In Bush's defense he has three times the people, all with free speech, to appease and deal with. Plus 9/11 more or less sent America reeling both economically and socially.
Matt Skeen, Port Orchard, Washington
A strong nation doesn't obsess over foreign criticism. Russia should grow up.
Jim Connors, Durham,
Russia is a great country and it's industry is driving the European economy and we in Britain would do well to maintain good relations - the people there are very friendly and regardless of what the Russian administration says or does, the Russian people have a respect for the British people - let's not let Government posturing ruin our relations - my advice? Go to Russia and see what a wonderful place it is and how nice the population are.
Willymanc, Manchester, England
It is interesting to see how many people on this forum are still brainwashed with anti-Russian propaganda. They don't understand that Russia has come a VERY long way since 1991, but the West doesn't want to aknowledge this. Russia is still being judged by the West with Cold War mentality and its simply wrong. If the West will continue doing this mistake, the result will be disastrous for the West, not Russia. Putin has been open and tried to pass this message to Western leaders, but all he got - groundless accusations. Please look at the facts and you will see that West better has Russia as a friend and ally. Does USA want to have more problems? So why ignore and insult Russia? Unles, of course, USA has some plan to subjigate Russia in the future. I think this is the reason of the current orchestrated ant-Russian campain. The West is clinging to the Cold War in order to have a pretex to attack Russia in the future.
Oleg, Toronto, Canada
Russia flies bombers all over the world, but at least they don't throw bombs around like you know who. There are probably 50 times more NATO aircraft flying around Russian borders 24/7, they're building anti-missile systems and radars right at Russian borders that would see through half of the counrty up to the Ural mountains, and you think Russia wouldn't react?
RT, Toronto,
The ex-KGB operative, Vladimir Putin, should stop trying to play mind games. We're not that stupid. Russia will always be Russia.
Ike Eisenhower, Brisbane, Australia
Putin seems to me the most creative and intelligent world leader today. And he's got a judo blackbelt.
The frankness and common sense are rare among politicians.
it's sad to see cold-war posturing emerging again
a primetime interview on network tv or cable news would be helpful, definitely would activate some thinkers....
jay, bay area, california
For years I have believed that Mr. Putin is far more trustworthy than any of the western leaders including ours in Canada. He has much more integrity and intelligence than some of the liars we have to deal with here such as G.W. Bush and "Steve" Harper, two of the biggest liars I know of.
I wish Mr. Putin well. I wish we had him here in Canada.
ADAM JOHNSON, Victoria, British Columbia - CANADA
I'm rootin for Putin.
Jon, Greenville,
It's funny, the global roles have been switched. We are now the global military aggressor, while Russia employs diplomatic measures to solve their problems.
Better jump ship before it's too late. Maybe one day you'll all be working in the fields to meet your community quota.
Garrett, Medford, Oregon
Putin is only stating the obvious. He isn't some fang-grown lunatic and Western Europeans are not innocent babes in the woods. As a matter of fact; all of those Little Red Riding Hoods whipped up both world wars. Russia is struggling and Putin is coping. We should give the man more credit. At least he's not shooting up Iraq or foreboding a global-warming doomsday.
Max R. Smith, Houston, USA / TX
Why on earth? Putin should look back at his home country and the legacy he's leaving behind. Russia is a quasi-democracy and by all accounts it is far from matching Western standards of democracy. Everything is false there, including elections, political parties etc. The so-called Atlantic solidarity is not a silly thing. Thanks to it the West won the Cold War. It should be dropped once Russia accepted all the values Western countries share. Russia wants to impose its rules of game but it's not in a position to do so. That's why Mr. Putin flexes muscules, sending his strategic bombers to challenge Nato air-defence systems. It's all sabre-rattling although everyone knows that Russia is far from matching the Soviet Union in anyway.
Eli, Taipei,
I am ready to listen to more of what this man has to say. At least he's intelligent, unlike the President of the United States.
Max Dolores, London, UK
Mr. Putin has obviously always been a strong figure in Russian politics and perhaps recently mistaken as a hardliner and non-conciliatory. This insight is evidence of his vision and intellect and not just a force to be reckoned with. He very obviously understands his country and it's needs as well as the direction it needs to go in to become any sort of democracy.
Piet Pompies, Murfreesboro, USA, Tennessee
Just remind me - who is implicated in the poisoning of a Russian exile in London recently and who is refusing to extradite a prime suspect?
MarkS, Leeds,
Putin is the individual who protested a bit too much when the Litvenenko murder extraditions were sought. Pot! Kettle!
Gerard, London, UK
His mind is too dangerous. The system he has created is dangerous twice. It's resourcefully powered by oil money and new budget accent for his military. There is too much KGB in his blood system.
Michael Gurwich, Toronto, Canada
Hi, As a half Russian I have an option of validity. The culmination of tension between Russia (and the rest of the would) is based on the incoherence of dealing with the management of the economy .New found wealth (as in China) has the perpetration of danger.
Terence Hale, Zandvoort, Holland
I met two british tourists travelling by train from Ulaanbaatar to Baikal Lake in Russia 5 months ago. Hearing of the bears walking on our streets they said that the western brainwashing mass media makes a fool of everyone in the West. Being in the UK and not here in Russia you can't be able to understand what's really happening in our country. The least thing we want is a new Cold War. I see now that these comments also prove their autors are sane and competent people.
Temuujin, Aradan, Russia
We have a lot more in common with the Russians than we do with Muslims. This country should put the cold war behind us and start building a mutually beneficial relationship with Russia, America should do the same. The hand of friendship should be extended with no preconditions.
Welsh Patriot, Wales,
One politician just as bad as the next.
Farrukh, Woking, UK
i agree with putin maybe our politics should grow up he has a point.
Dave , london, england
James from Sacramento!
Absolutely agree!
Respect!
Greg, New York, USA
In view of Russia's increasingly belligerent attitude, abandoning the Atlantic alliance is the last thing we should be considering.
Plu ca change...
Dave, Southampton, UK
Russia is finally back in the big game of global acting powers. The Kosovo War in 1999 was humiliating for Russian foreign and securtiy policy and its global position. This time, it could be far more hard for the USA to act unilateral in the case of a self-proclaimed independency of Kosovo. Not only discordant European meanings about a future Kosovo and an agressive Russian bear are handicaps for the US Administration, it's the idea about unilateral action itself. This autumn is gonig to be quite hard for the Bush Administration, espacilly if a deeper conflict with Russia comes up.
Goran, Zurich, Switzerland
Ray, that's a Cold War mentality that you need to drop.
Gregory, Statesboro, USA
George from Florida:
One would be hard pressed to prove that the entirety of Europe were to be speaking German if the Americans did not step in. It is this form of the American psyche - the superiority complex, which separates Americans from the rest of the developed world. It is shocking to some Americans to hear that some people would rather live in Europe, and would not recommend to their friends life in America, because of the difficult life one leads on that country. That is to say, your offensive statement that the French, the Russians, the British, among others gave their children up for no reason, as only the American sacrifice made a difference is completely out of line and outside of historical context. What the hell do they teach you over there in America?
Jersh, Munich,
To the American posters,
Please use these pages to discuss the article itself, or the issues at hand. While I commend you for realising there is a world beyond the borders of the U.S.A., please do not use this space to rant incessantly about your displeasure with your country's choice of elected officials.
Scott, N. Yorkshire,
to andre, Geneva,
___________________________________________
Dear Andre, you are a little bit missing order of things.
At first NATO had increased and moved to Russian borders, USA captured Iraq for oil and started to create missile shield, Mr. Bush dreams to export his "democracy" around the world. And ONLY after above Mr. Putin "is flying long range bombers all over the world. He has also created the largest non-nuclear bomb. "
That is just our reply for aggressive NATO behaviour.
As for "cut off natural gas to Europe " please clarify what namely European country was cut off? May be Swissland?
If you mean Ukraine, it is true. But it was happen only after this country refused to pay for gas the price they signed before. (And this price was lower than world price).
How acts your gas company if you refuse to pay for gas according the contract agreement?
Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia
Interesting how these Russian stories always bring out the strangely suspicious pro-Putin comments. Some dark forces at work?????
adrian, London,
I find his comments persuasive and I am glad he has 'said it like it is' to the U.S. Everyone should do so.
Emma H., Ottawa, Canada
Russia is a big country and has a lot of peoples and cultures.
Mr. PUTIN is an ambitious man and wants his country make a leading country in Europe. At this monent, we cannot hope Russia is to be a democratic nation. It needs more time and efforts.
Seok Namkung, Seoul, Korea
He is true representative of the new brave world.
Michael, Sydney, Australia
Urss ended but not Russia.
andrea, rome, italy
Dump NATO? In a flash ....and, Vive de Gaulle!
Dion Per Sona, Cardiff, UK,
Viva Putin !!!
Ben, Bayeux, France
Just think if Ron Paul and Mr. Putin got to work together.........they could change the World!
RonPaulSupporter, Honolulu, US. Hawaii
My opinion is thaat Russia is trying to throw up a great big smoke screen in order that we may forget the fact that they ordered the Murder of Lithenenko in London by nuclear poisoning. I see nothing about that in the news anymore and Putin must be very happy, along with Lugovoy, that they have "got away with it".
Simon, Brighton, Sussex
Mr. Putin is not sincere saying that he will not run for presidency in 2012. However, if he believes that after resignation he will be puppet master of anyone (even his favourite Mr. Zubkov) in the Kremlin he is deeply mistaken.
It is really puzzling to me why NATO is silly and Shangai Treaty wise. May be because the latter is the result of Mr. Putins "geniuos " strategic thinking.
Kakhi, London, The UK
Vladimir Putin did and keep doing a good job for his country. Also I think that a little break wouldn't hurt, he'll get a chance to get a fresh start. He shouldn't care what if would be written by someone's press. If he will be the best candidate in 2012, I'll be glad see him again as the president of Russia
VladG, Silicon Valley, California, USA
There is one thing certain about Communism and old communist, whatever they accuse others of doing - you can bet your last penny they are doing it themselves. The US advanced Russia billions of dollars to help them out of the communist economic hole they had dug for themselves, other advanced industrial nations did the same. This is what we get for hoping for an improved Russian relationship with the west - it isn’t going to happen as long as Russia maintains such foolish attitudes.
Edward G Ogle Sr., Orange Park, USA / Florida
Reading these coments makes me concerned for OUR country. Some of you should go live under Putin and see if you wil still be able to demean your president the way you are free to do in this country. With so many people like this it no wonder that we are so quickly going down the road to Hell! Putin only loves power and more power and will try to walk all over anyone who oposses his military, economic and social schemes. Ganzales fires a few lossers from the last administrtion and you all cry foul. Putin fires the whole goverment and you think he has it all right. Well there we agree. Let Bush fire all members of the Congress, Senate and Supreme Court and apoint those who will as Putin says "so that he and his successor could enact necessary legislation". Then this nation would have a chance.
Jon, Roseburg,, Oregon
Sorry bit there is a typo: "At the same time, he sounded a more conciliatory note, --->sayinmg<-----: “We in Russia and you in Europe and the United States should..."
Otherwise, I think Russia and President Putin should be very closly watched in order to insure that Russia does not devolop some outdated Cold War attitudes itself.
David Anderson, Atherton, CA
the first positive article about Russia within my recollection. Maybe it's difficult to understand, but nobody here wants the cold war (or any other war). I believe everything has an economic sense, Russia has great energy recourses which are extremely reducing day-after-day all over the world. and that's the point of all battles.
imho, the better way is to change consumer's mind and values to something else. otherwise it goes from bad to worse. the cause of the global warming is not the production and industry per se, it's a result of our own wishes and desires feeding this all =)
Mike, Moscow, Russia
Serbia has lost any rights to run Kosovo over and over again during the last 15 years when violently abused even the most minor human rights of the Albanian population of the province forcing NATO to intervene militarily and the UN to take over since 99 the administration of the country at a huge cost to many nations mainly European union.
Somehow the idea of backing Mr Putin and undoing all the good work sounds nonsense.
Adrian Jegeni, Kidderminster, UK
Don't confuse the fact that Putin is a strong, focused and intelligent leader with the fact that he does not believe in democratic principles either today, or in the future when he plans to significantly influence his predecessors.
F. West, Burnaby, BC, Canada
You have to accept that Putin is a clever and compassionate man who made so much good. Probably he is the best leader Russia has ever seen. It is very upsetting that the smear campaign against him in the Western media over the last 5 years stained his image in the West.
Andrey, Liverpool,
Alas, Bush/Cheney aren't lost, nor have they ever been. They (actually, their masters) have always operated by their long term goals of securing more power and wealth for the wealthy, partly by establishing long-term warfare. The Western mass has never been more cowed. The propaganda machine alone is frightening. Ominously, this 'administration' is far from done.
Putin, many believe, is more of the same. Puppets that don flesh and blood are so much more believeable!
Ivar, Los Angeles, USA/CA
Well said Russia.I agree Russia has a lot more to offer europe than America does.
D Paterson, Glasgow, SCOTLAND
I’m from Russia. And I believe that sometimes nobody will think that all people in my country had ak-47, tanks, bears and lot of vodka at home. And if it happens during my life I would be obliged to Yeltsin and Putin.
Mikael, Moscow, Russia
Putin is not without shortcomings, but who doesn't have them? Vast majority of Russian people support him and The West has to give him credit for it. He is very intelligent and speaks to the point unlike some Western leaders.
To answer comment left by Andre from Geneva about long range bombers - if such planes exist they must not be grounded, but be used to train pilots to fly them. I don't believe they carry any nuclear weapons when they fly around the world, so this is not a danger to anybody. But it is a statement that Russia is back as the world power.
What Russia does need is transperancy on all government levels - municipal, regional, federal and a system to fight the corruption. This has been a major issue for Russian nation for many centuries.
I may be biased in what I am saying, but I can vouch for my words - I have lived in Soviet Union / Russia / Ukraine for 29 years before immigrating to Canada.
Sergiy Popov, Toronto, Canada
Does anybody remember Lonnie Donergan's skittle number which goes like "Putin' on the agony, Putin' on the show..."?
J. Wang, Penang, Malaysia
Putin sends long range strategic bombers to probe the UK air defences and then tells us to leave NATO! Next he will be telling us to hand over our armed forces to Russia and start paying taxes to Moscow.
Arthur, Melbourne, VIC
We should remember that even though Russia is an old, proud country, constitutional democracy is still in it's infancy there. Large, economically divided countries need forceful leaders as national rallying points more than ever, especially after undergoing such massive political changes that are still relatively recent.
That said, President Putin is a hypocrite to condemn "Cold War posturing" after the recent assassination on foreign soil of a dissident and sending bombers on exercises over the North Sea.
James, Newcastle,
Ah yes, lessons on democracy from Mr Putin, another round of the cold war is definitely here.
JC, London,
Christadelphians have said for over 150 years that Russia would eventually be a guard to Europe and invade Israel prior to the return of Jesus Christ to save this planet from its madness - check Ezekiel 38.
C. Carmody, Perth, Australia
Dear Vladimir Vladimirovich
Thank God for Google World. (and more so, those guys who have decided on the satellite photo-runs).
After a 4 week intensive search of the most recent satellite images and having compared them with similar shots taken last year, I can see exactly why you are beating your drum.
I think the western adage is : "Speak softly, but carry a big stick".
You are not quite at the big stick stage yet .... but I grant you, you are getting there. You may even be close.
Thank God for clear skies.
Best regards
David Michael, London, UK
You people praising Putin - you must be mad. He's a bully. His threats are simple, bare threats, not some new inscrutible move by some genius strategist. His threats are meant designed to intimidate and make people do what he wants, it's that easy.. He's "trying what scaring will do". But instead of indigation and resistance he gets approval and admiration from way too many people. The liberty of everyone in Eastern Europe at the very least is being threatened every other day now by Russian generals, politicians, and talkers of every stripe. To applause from half the readers of this article. Not good. We must resist.
Todd, Valtice, Czech Repubic
In the United States, I am what is called an Conservative Libertarian; but I must tell you that I am tired of passe views and pontificating. Don't get me wrong, I love my country, but what works for us is not necessarily what works for others. The Russian people and their government have come a long, albiet circuitous, way from the days of the Czars. Telling the Russian Government they need to be like the US, a federal republic, not a democracy, is like us telling the UK that a Parlamentary Government is the wrong way. Who the hell do we think we are. The Russian are truly new to capitalism and the change has its grow pains. To use an example in the above article, if the Russians wish to bypass a country in its delivery of natural resources, who are we, or anyone else to tell them otherwise; afterall, it is theirs to sell. That is like us telling the EU to lower their gas/petrol prices or the EU telling us that we should raise ours. Let the economy dictate the market.
Ernest N. Hart III, Austin, Texas, USA
"He is flying long range bombers all over the world" - wow, what a crime against humanity! Do they scare sea birds or something? Guess what - there is some other country with military presence all over the world. And its not just about "flying", its actually "war with terrorism", which means that military force can be applied pretty much anywhere. I would say its a good reason for our bombers to fly.
Regarding the alliance - well, there are lots of reasons for it. As far as I understand what Putin wants to say is that such solidarity will not make Russia play by alliance rules. If you support someone not because his actions are right, but because of "solidarity", its just not very constructive, it leads nowhere.
Alex, St.Petersburg, Russia
To Andre from Geneva:
In my opinion, Russia has more urgent needs than defence spending. However, look around - resource wars are everywhere. Being a country with loads of resources, reasonably small population and vast territory, Russia is bound to keep up with opponents, both actual and potential.
As for cutting off gas supplies to Europe, I'm sure Putin wouldn't want to cut supplies even for a second as it brings loads of money to Russia. The problem is you can't deliver gas to Europe bypassing countries like Ukraine who expect to pay 1/3 of what Europe is paying, steal quarter of what's being passed to Europe, and yet loath Russia and Putin. Surely, they have their own reasons to look towards Europe, behave the way they do (corruption being number one reason), etc. But how about paying what Europe is paying? Free market it is.
Putin is a very sensible leader of a country, just look at his track record - economy, corruption, organised crime, Chechhnya - he had success everywhere.
Alex, Sydney, Australia
I wish to any Western country leader like Putin.
Gary, Vancouver, Canada
the new Messiah :)
This guy knows everything even the statistics :)
Oh but he was a spy - he is supposed to know everything.
It's very interesting to see how the distance you live from Moscow and the lack of knowledge you have what's really happening in Russia reflects at the end in acceptance of the strange thoughts Mr.Putin spills over the world lately .
ivan, Sofia,
Finally we have a president we are not ashamed of.
But - Mr.Putin is just a public figure.
Think about a team which brought him to power and stands behind him - his advisers, image and policy makers.
They caught our local "bin ladens",
introduced flat and fair income tax and
began to pay families with 2nd child.
Those are pragmatic professionals who don't want to "go West" with stolen money. We need more of them. Just let Russia grow its middle class and everything will be all right.
Andrew, Murmansk, Russia
Putin is a straight shooter, and someone for America to fear also. Having worked many years in Ukraine, the young and growing middle class want to gravitate toward Western style democracy, but given a void, Russia will dominate. I am ashamed that the USA has given so little assitance to those countries directly at the footstep of Russia that want to be allies and friends with the USA. They could be such stablizers for Europe and keep a large growing power, such as the New Russia in check.
Don't be fooled, Russia has practiced Russification for years, they still intend to do so. They have imposed their language, policies, and business clout on the smaller countries surounding them. Don't forget, Stanlin murdered more Ukranian's than Hitller killed Jews. And this is not to mention the Lithuanian's, Poles, Estonian's, Lativian's, Bulgarian's, Hungarian's, on and on and on....
While as American's we are impressed with such a strong sounding leader Putin, we should also be warned!
Brad, Lgv., Texas
Mr. Putin, just a thought: the world might like to "be specific" about: Anna Politkovskaya; Alexander Litvinenko; Mikhail Khodorkovsky... to name one or two ideas...then maybe it can start listening to these new reconcilitary tones..:
Patrick Coffey, Cork, Ireland
So tell me, what exactly is the difference between democracy in Russia and the UK today? Is there a smoking ban? Are there speed cameras, cctv and thousands of citizens employed at the tax payers expense to carry out non jobs? Don't even mention the elf and safety, yuman rights and multicultural zealots. Quite honestly the only difference between Russia and Europe today is that in Russia people know they are not free and in Europe we just think we are..
Steve P, Leeds, England
I have to admit I like Vladimir Putin. He is a "straight-shooter," a man who says what he thinks. He doesn't garble his message with metaphor or veiled threats. It is easy to understand him and what he wants. And I don't see that what he wants is any threat to the U.S. or Europe. Personally, I would welcome a new American administration who would open new lines, new bridges to the Russia we are going to have to live with. There is no reason to be enemies, nor is there any reason to waste valuable resources competing with Russia on either a political or material level.
In fact, we are going to need Russia as an ally in order to successfully confront a terrorist ideology that simply is not going to go away. It would be in both our best interests.
James P, Sacramento, California
Putin is the first Russian President with an understanding of economics and the workings of the free market. He knows that Democracy can only be built on the back of impoved living standards for the wider population. When people can be assured of jobs, adequate food ,housing and heat, only then will they give serious consideration to the development of democratic structures and viable opposition parties
c quigley, NEW YORK, USA
We should look to be constructive of the near–future and not get hung up on who did what to whom otherwise we would still be fighting World War 2. We seem to forget in the demonisation of Russia that Russian people were the greatest victims of its autocratic traditions.
With Western Europe’s industry and Russian natural resources and its massive potential consumer market, it is a natural partnership – from Dublin to Vladivostok as an enlarged EU. It will happen anyway by trade even if the EU does not bring Russia into its political structure delayed by the Neo-Cons.
The success of the EU in making trading nations interdependent and avoiding military confrontation should be expanded for our and Russia’s benefit and to the benefit of a USA seeing the world in 21st century terms.
Charles McGrory, Glasgow, Scotland
Putin understands about power and how to leverage it. Oil, gas and commodities have given Russia increased economic clout and Putin will use it to increase Russia's influence. Nothing unusual about that - after all it is exactly what western democracies have done through history. Western leaders do need to take steps however to ensure that alternatives to Russian energy exist otherwise there is no doubt that Putin will use that lever to pressurize for concessions in other areas. A worrying proportion of Russian leadership has KGB background and are accustomed to the direct use of power ....... the experience of western oil companies having their contracts "renegotiated" should be a lesson well learnt for the West.
Graham, Cobham, UK
Putin comes across as intelligent, sensible, strong and well informed & patriotic - is that a fault? While I'm sure there are issues between Russia, the EU, the USA and probably many other places, I'm sure also that there are more areas of shared interest and agreement. We should be working with Russia wherever possible on these, so that any fears, which may be largely groundless, don't become self-fulfilling prophecies. Probably the only people who want the possibility of conflict are, of course, the MIC and there has to be better deserving destinations for the tax dollars, Euros, Pounds etc.
Cirep G Nol, London,
Sinister though he is, I can't help but admire his intellectual vigour and political nouse. Of course he is right in a way, but only if you consider the vacuous tenure of recent US administrations by comparison.
Robbie, Cambridge, England
Glad to read something not-negative about Russia in the Western press.
George Guschin, Toronto, Canada
Putin is the old Soviet Union, and he is not likely to change. There was never a reason to isolate Eastern Europe from the world, and there is no reason to return to those days. It is ironic that Putin is asking Europe to abandon the “Atlantic Connection†that is Abandon Canada and the US, even well knowing that without that connection, everyone in Europe today would be speaking German. Millions of tons of war and food supplies were delivered to Russia across the Atlantic in WWII. In addition, even today Russia has never thanked the West for that help. Anyone that places President Bush below Putin should go live in Russia, after all you have the freedom to travel, A privilege the Eastern Bloc people did not have for more than 50 years, that’s two generation - enough time for the youth of today to become stupid.
Edward G Ogle Sr., Orange Park, USA / Florida
Russia and a middle class!?!?! He is going crazy!!
ian, Lonaon,
I have always said that those who are dissatisfied with what is going on in their own government system should try to live under another system for a few years as I have under a socialist. So I think I am a bit qualified to say that I would rather live under clumsy Bush than a guy who looks and acts like a Bond villain.
Brian Williams, Houston, Texas
Eastern Europe having at last emerged from the grip of the Russian bear is understandably not too keen to get close too the beast again. More than once bitten etc
Ray Gee, Bristol, England
On Kosovo we should fully back Putin. No new borders, no new state. But a European future for Kosovo within Serbia.
Granting Kosovo independence would be a very big mistake!
Ron, Amsterdam, Netherlands
If you believe that I have a bridge to sell you.........
Mike, Seattle, WA
Sounds like a man with a lot of common sense, something George Bush seems to be lacking. If he is interested, I think there is room for one more candidate for US president.
Drewes Kooi, Columbus, usa, oh
He is flying long range bombers all over the world. He has also created the largest non-nuclear bomb. He has cut off natural gas to Europe at times. Why are we silly? Because we have a "sense of mistrust"? This is silly? Bush is silly for saying he has seen his soul. That is silly. He has no soul.
andre, Geneva,
It seems strange that he should be lecturing the west in these terms, given his own recent cold-war posturing.
Martin Evans, Newmarket, UK
While not always agreeing with Mr Putin, I do acknowledge that his leadership is far more intelligent than any of the western democracies, and that he makes compelling arguments on most matters.
Perhaps if we recognise that our systems have thrown up leaders who are war-mongering, interfering morons, we can take a few moments to consider how to change this.
Rawson A., Sydney, Australia
Putin is lots more impressive than the Bush/Cheney tag- team. He sounds intelligent and well informed on his own Country as well as the rest of the world. Bush/Cheney don't have a clue about anything. They've been totally lost for almost 8 years
G.Washington, Lock Haven, USA ... Pa.