US does,nt need the missels, i am sure if the co operated with russia , they could incorporate a a system in russia ,with russia , to their mutual satisfaction, after all iran etc would be a threat to russsia also, i am afraid US arrogance comes to the fore as usual.

jim, sligo, Sligo ireland

perhaps the US should just with drawn all of our military stationed elsewhere in the world and just mind our own business. We seem to have worn out our welcome everywhere in the world. And just watch, as the europeans kill off each other yet again after 60+ years of relative peace, the middle east continue to implode, central and south america commit genocide unimpeded again. I am reading alot from people who have done little or nothing for anyone else but themselves. If your tired of the US getting involved, step up and give my tax dollars a rest, Please.

I know the Iraqi's didn't ask the US to get involved but it would be nice if they would make an attempt at self rule. Saddam's "friends" ready to help!

Putin is no better then Bush, or any other politician from any country on the planet. They are all self serving and corrupt. If you live in a democracy you have the ability to change your country and if you don't well then you probably can't read this or respond any way

Thomas Carnett, Chicago, Illlinois, USA

What we are seeing here, in simplistic terms, is the United States trying to impose its concerns, legitimate or not in the eyes of many, in many spheres all over the globe as the sole undisputed superpower existing to date. Russia is trying to recover its lost status as a global power to be reckoned with after the demise of the then Soviet Union of which it is the heir. Iran doesn't want to be bullied around especially by a superpower it has virtually humbled during the hostage crisis it instigated over 2 decades ago. On the opposite side, China is also trying to assert its growing influence in an area heretofore dominated primarily by the United States and the then Soviet Union. Nations all over are trying to challenge the United States wherever it used to have undisputed influence-to include parts of Latin America and Asia.

It's simply a power play by incumbents, wannabees and has beens. What else could it be?

Kenneth Dale, Ormoc City, Philippines

>M Sullivan, Stafford, VA

This report shows the accelerated developments made during the late 80's-early 90's. After that it states ALMOST all activities had been destroyed, or shelved for future development. True missile developments were under way till the invasion, but the WMD program still lacked particular chemicals, parts and funding to be used in any 'mass destruction'. True some reportedly destroyed munitions were unaccounted for, still to this day, but this is stated in the report (repeatedly) as being due the invasion and coalition's forces inability to stop looting and displacement of weapons after the invasion.

I think at this point it's pretty obvious to the world that invading Iraq post 911 on 'axis of evil' pretense has only inflamed animosities and further complicated weapons dispersed amongst the world.

The West and it's allies have succeeded in stoking the flames for the next world wide conflict; a calculated move to gain control on an inevitable D-Day.

RPO, Portland, USA

I think US simply wants to use the pretext of Iran or North Korea in order to encircle Russia by its missiles and anti-missile batteries.
I don't think the Iranians and North Koreans are capable of threatening US and its allies militarily.
Therefore, Russian concerns are justified.

Chura , Bombay, India

Looking further ahead/afield:
Why on Earth doesn't Iran let UN-led inspectors in to audit their nuclear program? If they are not developing nuclear weapons and they prove this there would not be a level of paranoia such that the US feels they need to install missile shields in carelessly-chosen countries.

Surely Iran remembers how Saddam Hussein denied the existence of WMD, no-one believed him, soldiers were sent in to find them and found none but razed the country to the ground in the process before capturing Saddam and executing him..........I don't condone anything SH did but surely once the US have done this once, they will have no problem doing it again.


P.S. Arthur Chan, Kuala Lumpur:
The parallel with the Cuban Missile Crisis is yet another example of USA's 'one rule for us and another for you' attitude.

AC, Lincoln, IK

i would hope people are paying attention to what is happening in the world. Because of our misinformation to start the war no one gives us any merit on what may be said. For example countries like Venezuela, Bolivia, Nicagarua, Turkey and Russia are all telling us "if you do this then we will do that" and because of a weak perception we seem to be buckling in their face. Dafur is another country with the help of China in escaping our grasp. They demanded that all the troops come from African nations as a precondition to a peacekeeping force from the U.N. Turkey is threatening our supply routes in Iraq because the U.S. House is about to vote on Genocide that occured during the Ottoman Empire and WWI. With Russia they may want to keep in mind that we hold the key to entry in the WTO. Turkey may want to remember who supplies them with their defense aircarft, tanks, and overall weaponary. We have leverage, were just not displaying it.

buhdabless, ATLANTA, GA

for goodness sake, why should the west have to seek the permission of Russia before they do whatever they want in agreement with an Eastern european country. any country can seek to be a memeber of NATO and if they agree to have a missile defence system installed in their country, how does that affect Russian interest!!?
nations have freedom of choice and as long as it is not nuclear weapons that are been installed there is not much cause for dissension. i think Geroge Bush should go ahead and we in Africa are absolutely in support of Bush and the USA and the UNO

obinna anucha, lagos state, nigeria

I see a dispreporsionate number of Canadians bad mouthing the US. Funny how a people who don't need to spend much money (taxes) on defense ridicule the very country that affords them that luxury.

Hows that medical system working out for you? I took my daughter to the doctor today and got right in without making an appointment weeks ago. But I'm still paying 28% income tax.... versus your???? what is it now... 50%?

Thomas, Chicago, Illlinois, USA

President Bush sees Iran as a threat the same way he has seen Iraq as a threat. If u remembered clearly,the United States had no other option but to invade Iraq becuz Iraq had weapons that could commit mass murder on US soil. Yes the world was told at every prime time news conference that Iraq had Bio/Chemical weapons and is seeking the means to deliver them to commit mass murder. As the president he could not wait until New York, Florida, or even Washington D.C was hit before he believed that that threat was real. 4 years after they are still i beleive looking for those same mass murder weapons.Anyways my point is how can Russia be comfortable or even trust wat is coming out of the US when their President and Secretary of State have a crediblity issue. They both said that Iraq had weapons of Mass Destuction -Prove it. Now they are saying that they are seeing a surprise nuclear threat from Iran.Please. I hope President Putin will continue to show that he has backbone.

Canute Ashmeade, Kingston , Jamaica

it is very little concern of the usa that france and germany have nuclear deterents, if they do at all. the usa will defend itself and put the much needed defense system into poland and anywhere else . putin is a wanna be dictator and cannot be trusted. he has proved that on so many newly formed occasions. given the chance , he will become a dangerous man for the rest of the world. i only wish president BUSH had 1 more term in office to call putins BLUFF !!

steve, tampa, florida

Where was all this anti-American whining during the Marshall Plan? And where was all the sympathy for Russia when they were rampaging across Eastern Europe and the Americans halted the spread of their totalitarianism? It was conveniently OK for America to defend Western Europe from the Russians in those days. Imagine America totally out of the picture for a moment. Would Europe and Russia and Iran and the rest of the traditional enemies be holding hands, singing Kum Bah Yah? No. The Europeans would come groveling back to the Americans to protect them again.

Carl Garther, Rochester, New York

In recent news about the United States and Russia concerning the missle defense system. It appears that once again people through out the world are anti-west. This position is interesting, one writer mentioned about reading up on history from Canada. Maybe that individual should consider history in and of itself. Putin is positioning himself to become a dictator, why else would he place himself as prime minister. History has shown that it repeats itself, therefore it would be wise to see where Russia is heading. They do have some form of democracy, but it to will be gone once Putin becomes prime minister.

Erich Slivensky, Charlotte, USA, MI

Poland is officially part of the EU, and therefore, it ultimately answers to the EU Commission and its broad defense policies. While individual countries make decisions about joining NATO and securing their national defense, this discussion with Poland is about neither. It is about an international missile shield affecting the entire EU. Therefore, the decision is not Poland's alone, but a matter which must be brought before the EU Commission for a final decision. Both France and Germany have an arsenal of nuclear weapons which are capable of reaching Iran. Therefore, the necessity of a missile shield as a deterent raises many questions. From my point of view, Bush failed to adequately explain why a joint venture with Russia at an existing Russian radar base would not be in the best interests of all the nations involved. Insisting on a missile shield in Poland when there are other EU member states positioned closer to Iran not in Russia's sensitive "backyard" begs explanation.

Mar, Helsinki, Finland

The US is acting in its own interest not anyone else's. I agree with Putin.

Andrew, Harrow, UK

RE;M Sullivan, Stafford, VA comments. Iraq didnt have a bio/chem WMD program because all of those weapons were given to iraq by usa. Read up history and facts before posting fiction. Second, russia has full right to judge on its own what is a threat to it. To any sensible thinking person, a missile defense near a country is a threat to its immediate detterent capabilities. Therefore it is hypocrasy to say it is to defend that russia. Iran has no need to attack any europian country. It has never launched any air or ground attack on anyone in the world. So it is very hard to believe a usa who has dropped nuclear bombs on civilians and has supplied weapons to iraq and afghanistan and to many other countries and has war with more than 6 countries with in the last 60 years.

Robert williams, Vancouver, Canada/BC

we must follow Noah Chomsky and unite against the barbarous regime of Washington. the us has only created fractures deceives and is now on the intend of invading Iran with the aid of the French. who can blame Putin in fact i would station topol missiles in Venezuela and at large cut all oil import worldwide to the US in order to bring it back to sanity the entire world must unite against this government of fools that worships war, despises the underprivileged and the innocent, murders children's spread deceases and it calls it democracy. look what they have done in Iraq, and how they promise to leave the eastern nation out of NATO. the us is a danger to humanity any sane person that trust Washington is crazy. we all wonder what is on sarkosy mind when he sides with G W BUSH and the pack of wolf's.

bremont, paris , france

Putin is a real friend of USA, but they don´t be able to understand him: The struggle of the USA for a unilateral world is damned to fail. This will end in the downfall and isolation of the USA and the whole world will suffer damage.
The words for the right way of a livable future are (true) morality, (true) justice, social responsibility, respect of the equal rights of other nations, collaboration, peaceableness, humility, humanity and so on.
But it is hopeless that leaders with a ignorance arrogance sociopathic behavior and attitude will be able to understand this. And by this the militarization of the world and the fear of a great worldwide atomic holocaust will persist.

JohnPlaton, Stuttgart,

Bush has single handedly destroyed our world power and influence. He has undone all the work of Ronald Reagan.

There is no reason this shield cannot be win Abderjan where Russia does not have a problem with it. Bush is being a world bully in an apparent attempt to control world oil supply lines. Russia sees this and now Russia / Aisia and the Caspian Oil Rich countries will undo us economically.

The world will stop accepting dollars for oil. our fiate money system will fail Ron Paul is our only hope for the future.

Otherwise we will enter a depression that will make the great depression look small.


RonPaul2008.com

Dale Legan, texas city, TX

The Russians should respond by making their anti-missile missiles "Open Source", that is, upload the complete plans and specifications to their website, so that any country can develop their own far more easily, rather than have to buy from the Americans.
It's in every country's interest to have the ability to knock down ICBMs flying over their country, whether it's aimed there or at the next country. Missiles don't always go where they're supposed to, so it's handy to have one's own defense.

T. Sanford, Dallas, TX

There is already war in different parts of the world. I don't understand why the Europe, which is hardly having any war anywhere, and which has seen two World Wars, and a long period of cold war still want to go back to the old days.

I don't understand why they want to bully the Russians by towing to the line of Americans. Isn't there any European country who has the guts to say the Americans that they are wrong, at least when they are wrong, instead of simply following the Americans.

I can't understand why they want to put a missile sheild. Everyone around the world know that Europe has so much military potential that if anyone attacks it, that country can be wiped off from the world within hours. So, why all these unnecessary strife.

Can't all these money be used for some thing really useful.

Praveen MC, Bangalore, India

If someone was going to surround you with weapons, would you not worry? This so-called Missile Shield may not be what its made out to be, but a way to keep Russia controlled. Why else would the U.S. want such a shield?

I don't think the Russian President Vladimir Putin is so naive to accept the American reason for the Missile Shield. Surely he knows what the real aim of the Bush regime is? If the Bush regime thinks that Vladimir Putin is another Russian Khulack, they are sadly mistaken, because he is a smart cookie. This is one time that the Russians have the upper hand, and theU.S. knows it.

Kenneth T. Tellis, Mississauga,, Canada

to the shadow,

The US has already tried to invade Canada and Failed.
read your history.

It wouldn't surprise me if Canada was already preparing border defenses against the us, as im sure the realize they will be flooded with poverty stricken paupers from the us some time in the next decade

Putin is a very smart man, Because i don't totally trust what i read in the paper, weather or not hes a dictator I'll leave history to decide,

as putins a smart man and has set the path for the next Russian president to follow the us should defuse these incessant attempts to go out of there way to infuriate other states. especially those who are set to dominate the rest of this century.

Bede, AKl, New Zealand

A friend shared this with me: We missed the WMD intel by a wide mark. The world seems to focus on expecting caches of the WMD from the 70s and 80s. The on-the-ground investigation discovered after the war was that the Iraqi WMD program was both larger and much more sophisticated than anyone thought. Saddam was very effective at his slight of hand. He had poured billions into the development of biologic and chemical weapons and delivery systems. His nuke program we had gotten about right. We missed the fact that Saddam had made a quantum leap in the modernization of his biological and chemical weapons program. Saddam possessed what is probably the largest and most sophisticated WMD program in the world in terms of chemical and biologic weapons. Those have been found and are detailed in scary terms in the Duelfer report -- which the world seems to largely ignore.
I'll share the link. Please educate youselves before you believe this "no WMD" charade. http://www.lib.umich.edu/govdocs/duelfer.html

M Sullivan, Stafford, VA

The difference between Russia and the US is that the US has a history of defending friends and neighbors while Russia has a history of taking them.

john smith, johnson city, pa

There is one word that describes everything that's been going on. It's called american imperialism.

john, NY, NY

I think that President Bush and his administration is making big problems for our future american people, but the planned missile defense system is a good idea to protect the innocient
people in Europe and Asia from Irans intentions. They are a country that should not be trusted by any not even mother Russia. I have alot of respect for Vladimir Putin and his views but the way Russia responded to our missle defense system by testing NUCLEAR WEAPONS that can break through missle defense systems was a wrong response everyone knows Russia has a strong NUCLEAR arsenal it didn't need to be retested over something that is also built to protect their people. Dropping all the treatys that were signed in the past by rememberable presidents of Russia and the United States will cause Europe to respond in the ways that Vladimir Putin expressed. Russia shouldn't be troubled by US plans to protect. They should be troubled by CHINA, joint military exercises was china's way to figure a weakness

J, moline, il

Yea,its quite interesting,but used to have a lot of fools as friends boomeranging of WMD in Iraq b4 d invasion.Hell knows nothing was found.US have raped many conciences, abused the world. 911 might still need some sceptical look. US does just as much as Russia does in taming journalists. You have gotta sit ur demn butt down and think the past, the present, and with logic analyse the future. I will never believe Bush nd Co (Cheney, Beans, Gates but not Bill etc) They are suppose to be brought to book. No wonder african leaders take on their path to humiliate and undermine rights anyhow. Guys, u will be fools, most dumby fools if u were twice beaten. I lived in Russia, west europe and in North america b4, I have my solid facts. Let us all stop manipulations and sit our butt down. Nature will never forgive some of our leaders and their bosses who sent them on such deadly missions. Talibans nd Co are good friends of US, why d misunderstanding, pls go find out.

Debby Arnaud, Montreal, Canada

So we in America should appease Putin. Didn't you Brits try that with Hitler. As I recall, it didn't work out too well. The Russians understand and appreciate strength. Stand up to Putin and he will recognize that he has to stop making demands and learn to live with his neighbors, who were his old satellites. Cave in, and he'll continue to roll back NATO and undermine democracy in Eastern Europe as he has in the Ukraine and elsewhere. Look at the scortched earth war he is waging in Chechnya. Instead of attacking Bush, attack Putin. The difference is that Bush will just ignoreyou and Putin will cut off your oil and gas and freeze you in the winter.

Smith, Herndon, USA

First. Do not be worry of Russia itself.Russia is not a military threat anymore. The problem with Russia only its asian kind of approach.
Second. It is time to US to compete economically with rest of the world and grow US economical power using its most advance capitalist system in the world. After that it will be the next world ORDER. Today is transition period in the world ORDER system.
It will settle on.
Third. For Alla from New York.You dear have two choices:
1st.Go home to Russia.
2nd.If you will live in US at least 5-8 years you may realize your
todays comment as not valid.
Respectfully ,Mike,Los Angeles

mike, los angeles, california

Whats makes you guy think when bush leaves, the U.S. will become isolationist? Man I miss the Cold War, because back then people supported the military and they did not protest everything the government did. I have a question for you guys, when bush leaves offense, who are you people going to bitch at now? Could it be the next president....Russia?

zachary jeli, Milwaukie, OR

Well I have plenty to say. Its hard to believe that we have such an ignorant president. Between him and Cheney and the rest of the gang, well they have just about destroyed this country I believe in being strong, not a bully. It took four countries to bring North Korea to where it is at this point, us being number five. I read something a couple of days ago that Bush had made a very serious negetave comment about North Korea, at the risk of un-doing what has been accomplished so far. He the presedent of our country needs duct tape on his mouth or taut on how and when to keep his ignorant mouth shut. Then to irritate the Russians with what we are trying to do in eastern Europe. Rember Cuba, I guess we forgot. Its like they are looking for large scale trouble. Even South America is a mess now, and I wonder why? Chavez, Castro, and more. Now we are about to bomb Iran, wow. Who's next? Wake up, its almost getting to be to late. This has to be the worst Presedent EVER.

Mustang, APTOS, , Ca. USA

I honestly do not understand why my government whom I served proudly in military service is now so eager to re-ignite the cold war. I am not an isolationist but somehow, we seem to be more concerned about spreading our version of democracy in a confrontational manner. It is time to first fix things back home then we can take a fresh start in engaging the worlds problems. We need new leaders, new ideas, and most importantly, new priorities. Unless Russia is about to start launching nukes at Europe anytime soon, we need to focus building peace.

Bob, Alpine, CA

I've been living in USA for 2 years. I just want to say that I respect american people, I like this country, but not the government... I was in Russia for many years and I know that most Russians support Putin so am I. It's ridiculous that when Russia has problems, West and specially USA are always around trying to teach her how to live. You need to be in Russia to feel this influence of USA. I cannot wait when elections starts...

Alla, New York,

"President Putin of Russia, is concerend about a missile defense system in Eastern Europe and he has every right to be concerned. In fact, I agree with his idea of basing a missile defense system jointly, with the United States. In my opinion, the United States, needs to focus on numerous problems at home, such as the economy, gangs, drugs, trrade, debt, education, and become less concerned about what goes on in foreign countries."

R.. Moore, Seoul, Republic of korea

Putin is basically a dictator who in herited a country that desperately needed Europe and the U.S. and now he controls the engery requirements of the ladder. Go figure that he now wants to turn the screws! Russia is a problem and always will be...they are a deposed superpower and will always want to demonstrate their power. Poverty in Russia, outside of Moscow, is rampant yet all Putin has time for is posturing. Reminiscent of Mussolini....I hear the trains still run on time in Moscow.

Keith, Canada

Keith, Calgary, Canada

'The Shadow' seems to think that it is the world that needs the US, and that the world's only superpower can actually become an 'isolationist' country.

If it does, the Mr Shadow had better be prepared to lose the 'way of life' he is used to; the same 'way of life' that the US says it is defending when it invades or meddles in the affairs of other countries.

For America, it is a 'Catch-22' situation. Withdrawing from the world will mean an economic collapse. Carrying on in the way it is doing, is rapidly making it the world's most hated country.

Maybe you should have thought of that before you voted for a president and vice president who are only interested in how much money their businessman friends make from a very expensive war that you and your fellow citizen taxpayers are paying for.

People hate America for what its leaders are doing, not because they hate your way of life.

The light, Mumbai, India

Bush thought he could sway Puting by hosting him at his
family's "compound" there in Maine. Well, it didn't work. Great power relations are more important than that. And Bush saying he could read the Russian leaders soul by looking into his eyes
was entirely laughable. Putin is completely poker face, hard as nails. And to hear Rice lecture them on abusing the executive power........she may as well be talking about Bush.

Jean claude, Busan, South Korea

Enter the fray
Delay the day,
Domion shall rule
When evil slay.

Never leave your house open
For vandals to tear down,
Else you'll be just another piece of carrion
Cold flesh rotting on the unfeeling ground.

In strength we extend our hands
In verifiable trust,
To flourish inside the world's garden
Else raise iron horses cloaked in rust.

Allen Weinberger, 7/14/2007

Allen Weinberger, Columbus, OHIO, USA

The policy of the West against Russia has been very complex, but it can be summarized in a few words. Most importantly, it is not in US or EU's interest for Russia to be strong. Russia was very weak in 90's and the West tried to appear as making "friends" with Russia. Since 2000 the things have changed. The political system has been stabilized, the economy is growing, the West doesn't like it. The West wants Russia to be weak. US wants to remain a "super-power". Things will change very soon. America's moral values have degraded in the past decade or more. Most of the U.S. population is a hurd of sheep that believes everything media says. Just look at this government, look at what's happening in the Senate, look at Iraq, look at the average weight, look at the healthcare's unreasonable prices, look at Britney, look at Wolf Blitzer, I can go on... The only media that actually makes sense is John Stewart's Daily Show.

Roman, Milwaukee,

Remember the "Cuban Missile Criss" in 1962 in which American U-2 spy plane revealed missile bases being built in Cuba, in response to similar U.S. bases built at the Turkish-Soviet border. At that time, the Americans were really mad. Now how can one blame the Russian if a "Missile Defence" base located in its door step. The Bush Adminiatration has such poor common sense and wasted soo much money and manpower, which could be well spent on their own citizens.
Just look at China!

Arthur Chan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

TO THE REST OF THE WORLD: I would vote for a Complete Withdraw from All your Homelands and let you all fend for yourselfs: No Aid, No Money, No Arms, No food, No Energy, No Medical Supplies, Nothing Ever again. We would be a isolationist Country As prior to WWI and WWII. We Can turn a Deaf ear to you and your needs.
Go cry to some other country about your human rights violations, your mass genocide murders, your failing economy, your totalitarian governments. Since the rest of you in the world seem to feel that as Americans we are only concerned for ourselves, than by God we should live up to your view of us and cut you all off from everything from our country all at once!!!!!
Oh and Canada, quit whining about hosting the Olympic's. The Only thing your country should be allowed to host is a Invasion!! I think we should build that wall along Canada's border, not Mexico!!

The Shadow, Houston, Texas

The way to move Russia into the European-US fold is certainly not to militerize former Soviet states. If the worry is "rogue" missles, then I think Russia could be incorporated into such a system. Even if Russia is part of the system, the US could retain autonomy over those parts of the system it deems vital. I'm sure it will get worked out. Putin is a master policitian and I'm sure that he's appealing to certain nationalistic, hard line elements in his government. But Russia's future is with the West despite attempts by certain individuals to try to put as back 20 years ago. In regard to "Putin's Russia", the liberal democracy model may not work for Russia. Russia is a vast country with an assortment of problems that US and European countries don't have. Corruption in local governments is so well entrenched that only the consolidation of power in Moscow can reform the country. And Mr. Putin only has power to the extent the Russian elite let him.

Nathan McCain, Indianapolis, USA, Indiana

While in I agree with very little of Bush's foreign policy, this missile shield is a purely defensive measure and although it is doubtful that they are currently capable of launching a missile into Western Europe, I doubt they are as far from it is as some suggest. Putin appears to be trying to recreate the old order of the Soviet bloc, with Russian fighters encroaching on Georgian territory and claiming sovereignty over the North Pole. It is unfortunate that some people allow their personal feelings about Bush to get in the way of an objective analysis of the situation between these two nations. All evidence suggests that Putin wishes to lead a rebuilt dictatorship in Russia and people are actually congratulating him for "standing up to Bush". Bush might be a terrible leader, but at least his term will expire, whereas Putin, even if he leaves the presidency, will become PM with a hand-chosen puppet as president.

Stuart Campbell, Mabou, Nova Scotia, Canada

All and sundry blame Bush today. Hmm...
Time will tell...
I just hope the world and the leaders of today will not live to regret their lookwarm attitude towards all glaring dangers ahead....
God Almighty has entrusted the lives of His people to your hands oh leaders of Europe.
If USA does not move, nothing happens and when she does, everyone says She is bossy.
Thank God for people like Sakozy and a few others. But please do more.
I am not particularly keen about the misile defence shield, but i am concerned about 'rogue states' having "Nude weapons" of any sort.
They only want it to achieve what their leader told them ' to rule the world, even though he is not even sure of the 'heaven',
We want peace, the children are suffering.
all these monies can be channelled towards making the world a better place.

zzacky Bloft, clonmel,

Instead of leading world to peace the last superpower moving to war and tension. War in Iraq military pressure around all world including Russsia, ignorant relations to all other world. This is not serious politics but play of muscles of big boy. One day he will hurt not only others but youself too. There are no any more acsuse on the military race between two systems. Bush easily spend hundreds billions for useless and dangerous Iraq adventure but fight with solving problems facing the world and USA like climate danger. He looks like a big monkey who use microscope as a hammer. Politics of Russia is direct response to unwise and ignorant actions of Vashington.

Yuri, Toronto, Canada

Putin have approval rating of 85%of russians while Bush at the other hand have approval rating of 21% at most,not to mention who is more respected or less hated around the world,which one makes you sick,the one expanding his missiles reach and arms into other countries or the one who just doesn't want it in his backyard reaching his country and others around him,by the way who caused more suffering and casualties in his term(s)in office? and what is more likely to happen,putin starting a new war,or bush doing so before he leave?

Andy, rahway, USA/NJ

US wants to control the world and finaly to own it. But does it have strength to do it? No, US is loosing Iraq war. Will US atack Iran? Maybe, but this be a second push to the end of the USA. As about Russia, it will win in any way, as it did after Iraq war. Just imagine what money did Russia do. Russia is today very strong. Russia has good relations with almost all EU, particularly Western. And China will speak too, when time comes. As about this missile defence , I don't know if they do it or not, but I think it is more principle thing than objective. They say it will defend Greece and Turkey, but why not placing it in Turkey or Greece? And just look at Rice... Makes me sick. When she starts speaking all the "....." she always says... OK... It is enough . Anyway I think EU must have a good plan about American invasion, always talking about terrorism, but what about Russia? Russia suffered much more from terrorists... as well as Europe. Europe just must be strong by itself.

ilias kiri, Athens, Greece

I'm surprised no one has ofted Bush and his Hawkish regime when he travels to these other countries.
Bush is the worst REGIME in the world. Who else is invading Muslim countries for the sake of 911? Bush has shifted his theology from finding Osama to dominating the world with US diplomacy and morals which NO ONE wants. Just watch Jerry Springer.

AB, Riydah, Saudi Arabia

First a little tidbit about the supposed "War on Terror". For those who aren't aware, there were more terrorist acts recorded around the globe, and more people died of terrorist acts, in period of 1984 - 1994, than there have been in the period of 1996 - 2006. This "War on Terror" is no more than a pretense to strategically reposition for a post-cold war world. Every country on the planet has it's own interests, and it's quite reasonable to have legitimate concerns about what's going on in ones back yard. Would America allow a missile defense shield in Cuba, or Venezuela? Not in a million years.

Here's a question: In the real world as it is TODAY, which of the following has a greater chance of happening?

1. Iran fires a missile at Germany?

2. The US fires a missile at Iran?

Answer that question first and you would be able to answer the question of just who NEEDS a missile defense system the most.

Volker, Newport Beach, California, USA

The US wants military bases in Iraq, and advanced radar in the middle of Europe. It's just a military expansion. Russia doesn't want it, naturally. It's as simple as that.

My prediction: The end result will be nothing. Eventually the US forces will leave Iraq, there will be no military bases, there will be no missile defense system. Prior or post, an economic crisis will hit the US, and the rest of the world to some extent, and the funding for these operations will dry up.

Frank, Prague, CZ

'Bush is a crook' - this is what Putin is saying. Absolutely right. This is the worst American President ever - a sly, crafty and deceptive. Just remember how he deceived Tony into submitting to him and joining him in an unjust war against Iraq. Tony was his best friend. Recently we saw how he almost cheated Dr Manmohan Singh, a novice politician, into falling in his trap. Indian PM called him the best friend. It is unbelievable that a President of a country can be so ungracious, unscrupulous and downright war monger. He must be shown his place and Putin is the right chap. Keep it up Putin. You were disappointing the whole world by letting this so-and so into talking and doing any non sense he wanted. Just stop him. We will also lend you our full support.

Anis, Kolkata, India

i think what putin need to tell bush is,lets build this missile defence stuff since not only europe and the united state will benefit from it but the rest of the world,instead of only been concern about how the system is a step toward undermining the deterent value of russia's nuclear arsenal.if america can help protect us from lran nuclear's threats,then i think we should allow her to take all the necessary steps.the only good advice i can give any body out there is,please get to know God and forget the rest,cause with God everything's possible!
the european
union on the other hand is obviously too busy
preventing turkey from becoming a member,but we hope to hear from them as soon as possible,cause europe is gettin very powerfull and if the europaen union is to telk over from america,i think they will certainly do better!because our way of life in europe is different
from especially russia,i wouldn't even wanna sent my dog to live in russia,hell no!

bill, zoetermeer, holland

Very interesting replys, I see that the USA is a manipulative and bad place. The people of the USA
have helped the world against such tyrants as
would love to control the world, including the less than honorable Mr. Putin. I personally have a lot
of contempt for your views as you know that the USA would be of aid to you should any form of disaster should strike your countries, and this aid would be without condition. Dealing with anyone is difficult, but dealing with power hungry leaders of any country is a taxing process but without this bantering we leave a appeased unlasting peace.
May God Bless you and keep you from need.

Jack, North Richland Hills, Texas

I wonder if Putin would behave so forcibly if his advisors sense a smell blood in the water. Maybe they are imagining it but it is worth a try, add to Bush's disquiet.

John Joyce, Sothampton, USA, NY

Am in Total support of Mr Putin he has to stand up the the US, they are selfish and thing of their own only.

Nii Darku, Accra, Ghana

US should back of with all their plans to push their own plans on the world.As after 11th september the world has become more dangerous than safer.Thanks to US & their supporters for this.US is already having its army worldover.So what Putin thinks can happen.SO PRECAUTION IS BETTER THAN CURE.

Praful Parakh, baku, Azerbaijan

It's a shame that people not influenced by american media see throught President Bush's Foriegn Policy. His true intensions arefor a one world power. If not for the stance by Russia, America would dominate world policy.I hope that more European countries follow Putins steps, the only way there will be true security is if everyone involved get together and lay groundwork that would benifit all.. Not just America. If you believe Iran has the know how for a missle the could reach Europe let alone America you just kidding yourself.

Trevor , edmonton, Canada

Shame on the Russian Communist Government. Shame on Putin. It's just that some people have no shame. Putin is playing a dirty political game with nostalgia of the old world order when the Soviets enslaved 1/2 of Europe and 1/2 of Asia. The US should ignore Putin and let him start a new "arms race" Maybe this will be the 2nd bankruptcy of the Soviets, since some people learn nothing from their 1st bankruptcy.

Manuel, San Francisco, CA

Hypothetical Situation 1: The U.S. goes ahead with the missile defense system. Iran develops missiles able to reach Western Europe and the ability to deploy a nuclear payload.
Result: Diplomacy may still have a chance since the U.S. has the ability to protect others without attacking Iran.

Hypothetical Situation 2: The U.S. backs down. Iran develops missiles able to reach Western Europe and the ability to deploy a nuclear payload.
Result: It is possible that in this situation the only way to stop an attack would be by destroying Iran's ability to launch. (This would be a preemptive strike). Additionally, if the U.S. didn't do anything about it, Israel almost certainly would.

Tyler, Akron, Ohio

I suggest that for these leaders particularly Bush and Putin to come to terms, why not put this defense shield (both radar and interceptor missiles) within Russian territory but near the boundary with Poland or Czech Republic. This is on top of the agreement that Russia will be included among the European countries covered by this defense shield. However, I doubt if Putin will accept this agreement or this whole idea of defense shield because in the first place Russia is not threatened by any rogue countries particularly Iran which the whole world believes is a close ally of Russia way back the Iran-Iraq war of the 80's. I remember back then that the former USSR played a chess war (by supporting Iran) with the US (supporting Iraq). Lets just hope that these leaders be honest to themselves and lay down their very purpose for and against this defense shield for them to come up with an agreement.

Michael Garcia, auckland, New Zealand

Dear ALK, Rostov and others commented, You are obviously blind by the propaganda lies by US and allies.I am not saying russia is 100% right.But, this US quest to induce thier global hegemony is making me sick.The US and its allies are being transformed in to megolomaniacs.Besides what is the need for USA to install its defence system in Europe itself?Why dont they deploy it some where in the atlantic or pacific?Dear davies A, you mentioned 'Russian invasion of the artic'!!lol.What can i say??The russians and the canadians have most of the territories adjoining the artic.Maybe the danes too(from gronland).US has very little land adjoining artic by virtue of alaska.So why do thy want lions share of the artic?

Max, Dusseldorf,

I believe in fairness, I support US deploy missile shield in Poland if US allows Russia to deploy its missile defense in Venezuela.

After all, it is much likelier for US to attack Venezuela for its oil using Hugo Chavez as an excuse, than North Korea to attack Poland for the Polish sausages.

John, San Jose, USA

The key words in this article are " before his term expires" in the United States it is written in the Constitution. Will the president of Russia's term expire? Come on Russia grow up.

Peter, Orlando,

On the recent meeting with Mr Putin Russian preseident. I think that Mr Putin is not being realisitic over the denger the western countries are faceing from terrorist. This is not the best way to show how powerful Russia is. Assumming 911 happened in Russia, will he be able to handle the situation the way Americans did? His behaviour is like that of child that discover his new found wealth. This is the time to work together for the common good for the world.

Chuka Ume-Ezeoke, Den Hoorn, The Netherlands

The Americans, The Russians and together with the UN has failed the World.Of what use are treaties if they cannot be upheld and sustained?
Why the power tussle of where to place the misssile defense?Who is firing the missile in the first place?Iran so says the western world basing their conclusions on suspicions and instinct without any concrete objective data to show for it.
Enough is Enough.The world needs peace and not lies, arrogance, blackmail, double standards and propaganda.
With international soverignity being abused every now and then(thanks to america for setting the precedence), countries are beginning to abandom well established international norms to attack soverign nations militarily such as the case of the invasion of Iraq,the Russian invasion of the artic,Israeli air strikes in syria and more recently the intensions of Turkey to invade northern Iraq.
Do we still have a functional, unbiased UN? Judge for yourself.

Davies. A, SEVEN VALLEYS, PA

I'm tired of Putin threatening this and threatening that! I dislike extremely blackmailers and those who behave like them! If by such behaviour Russia (I identify the two - Putin and Russians - due to 85% Russia populace support of Putin's foreign policy) expects respect, she is much mistaken. Though it is just in line with the national character. According to a saying, which became very popular in Russia recently: they respect us only If we are fearsome and menacing.

ALK, Rostov,