Tony Halpin in Moscow and Alexi Mostrous in Washington
Enter our Snapshots of Summer photography competition

Russia defied the United States yesterday by announcing plans to sell military hardware to Iran and Venezuela.
The head of the state arms exporter said that he was negotiating to sell antiaircraft systems to Iran despite American objections. Russia has already delivered 29 Tor-M1 missile systems under a $700 million (£386 million) deal with Iran in 2005.
“Contacts between our countries are continuing and we do not see any reason to suspend them,” Anatoli Isaikin, the general director of Rosoboronexport, told the RIA-Novosti news agency at an arms fair in South Africa.
Reports have circulated for some time that the Kremlin is preparing to sell its S300 surface-to-air missile system to Iran, offering greater protection against a possible US or Israeli attack on the Islamic republic’s nuclear facilities. The missiles have a range of more than 90 miles (150km).
Sergei Chemezov, the head of the state-owned Russian Technologies, also disclosed that Venezuela’s leader, Hugo Chávez, wanted to buy antiaircraft systems, armoured personnel carriers, and SU35 fighter jets when they come into production in 2010.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Igor Sechin, one of the closest allies of Mr Putin, the Prime Minister, visited Venezuela and Cuba this week. Kommersant, the financial newspaper, said that Russia was forming “alliance relations” with the two antiAmerican regimes as a response to US involvement in former Soviet republics.
The Russian moves mark a serious deterioration in relations between Washington and Moscow. Condoleezza Rice, the US Secretary of State, threated to block Russia’s membership of key international organisations. She told the Kremlin that its “authoritarian policies” could prevent it from joining the World Trade Organisation and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, which coordinates economic policies among industrialised countries. In an outspoken speech to the German Marshall Fund, an institution promoting greater cooperation between America and Europe, Dr Rice said: “The picture emerging is of a Russia increasingly authoritarian at home and aggressive abroad.
“Russia’s bid to join the World Trade Organisation is now in question. And so too is its attempt to join the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.”
She added: “Russia’s international standing is worse now than at any time since 1991.”
The WTO is due to meet in Geneva on Thursday to discuss Russia’s bid to join the global trade body, a process that began in 1993, soon after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Dr Rice said that Russia’s actions in Georgia fitted into a “worsening pattern of behaviour”, which included its “intimidation of its sovereign neighbours, its use of oil and gas as a political weapon, its threat to target peaceful nations with nuclear weapons, its arms sales to states and groups that threaten international security and its persecution – and worse – of Russian journalists and dissidents.”
She repeated the US commitment to put forward a $1 billion economic support package for Georgia. The European Union has already pledged $500 million.
At the heart of the dispute between the two former Cold War adversaries is Moscow’s insistence that America and its Nato allies are interfering in Russia’s “near abroad” and threatening its interests. The Kremlin is furious about plans to site an antimissile shield in Eastern Europe. The interceptors are designed to stop ballistic missile attacks from Iran but Russia believes the system in Poland and the Czech Republic is aimed at weakening its military capability.
Ruslan Pukhov, the director of the Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies in Moscow, said that it was logical to conclude a lucrative contract with Iran “in the current situation, when the US and the West in general are stubbornly gearing toward a confrontation with Russia”.
Deadly deals
— Russia is believed to export arms to about 80 countries
— Venezuela bought Russian fighter jets and helicopters worth £540 million in 2006; Indonesia bought a similar amount in 2007
— China’s arms deals with Russia were worth £1 billion a year but dwindled in 2006 and no new contracts are planned
— In 2005 Russia agreed to sell 30 Tor M-1 air-defence missile systems to Iran
Sources: Global Security, RIA-Novosti, Agencies
Win a luxury weekend to Newcastle and its neighbour Gateshead, find out more here
Risk, resilience and embracing new technology
Industry sectors news at a glance. Interactive heatmap, video and podcast
Discover the collective power of smart thinking. Submit a solution and be in with a chance to win a Flip MinoHD Camcorder
The inside track on current trends in the charity, not for profit and social enterprise sectors
Everything the Business Traveller needs to know to make a better trip
Make the most of the summer and enter our fabulous photographic competition, you could win a £5000 holiday
Corsica is an island of beauty and contrast, an ideal holiday destination
Enjoy further reading from Travel to Fashion, Business to Sport, discover more
Shortcuts to help you find sections and articles
The clever way to lease a new car is with Car leasing made simple™
2009
42,945
2008
71,450
Car Insurance
Not Specified
MI6
UK-based
£60,000
The Environment Agency
Bristol
Up to £90K
Boots
Midlands
OTE £85k
Credit Protection Association
Nationwide Opportunities
Completely London
Luxury Condo's in Manhattan with NYC views
The best new homes in Wimbledon?
Nationwide
Save up to £1,000 per couple with Elite Vacations at the five-star Constance Lemuria Resort
and do the British Isles this Summer.
Save up to 60% with Oxford Hotels and Inns
Try our inspiring luxury holidays to the Indian Subcontinent and South East Asia.
Great offers available
8 fabulous Canadian cities ...you won’t find cheaper
Contact our advertising team for advertising and sponsorship in Times Online, The Times and The Sunday Times, or place your advertisement.
Times Online Services: Dating | Jobs | Property Search | Used Cars | Holidays | Births, Marriages, Deaths | Subscriptions | E-paper
News International associated websites: Globrix Property Search | Property Finder | Milkround
Copyright 2009 Times Newspapers Ltd.
This service is provided on Times Newspapers' standard Terms and Conditions. Please read our Privacy Policy.To inquire about a licence to reproduce material from Times Online, The Times or The Sunday Times, click here.This website is published by a member of the News International Group. News International Limited, 1 Virginia St, London E98 1XY, is the holding company for the News International group and is registered in England No 81701. VAT number GB 243 8054 69.
Robert, Toronto, Canada said "Can't we all just get along?? "
I think I can safely speak for the Mr & Mrs Average on the street paying their taxes (in every nation) that we all deeply desire to live in peace. Though if you read the PNAC Report some have other plans MORE WARS for money
Nick Mihaleff, Sydney, Australia
Can you just imagine what a bliss would suddenly descend on the world if America decided to let Russia be - and leave alone their agressive plans with Poland and Chechs , Ukraine and Geiorgia!
natasha strommer, melbourne, australia
Can't we all just get along??
Robert, Toronto, Canada
It is interesting that Dr. Rice, the pot, calling the Russians, the kettle, black. Anything the Russians have done or are now doing, are the same things President Bush's administration has been doing since his being in office. I guess he doesn't like the competition. Check out the similatries.
Robert Green, Stanton, united States
Rice said:"..Russia inceasigly authoritarian at home and agressive abroad."She said exactly true,but with small mistake,instead of Russia she had to say US.It's exactly about US policy,behavior inside of country and abraod.
Alina, Ufa, Russia
Not all of us in the US are easily deceived by the fascists in Washington DC. The Federal government in the US is the greatest threat to peace intthe world. The banks and corporations that owm the US gov. are totally bent on world domination and th exploition and subjugation of all people.
M Brandt, East Moline, USA
Comments from US specifically are so stupid! ;) Brainwash in action. Poor silly american folks... ;)))))))))
vsevolod, Omsk, Russia
Dr Rice: “Russia’s international standing is worse now than at any time since 1991.”
Who asked her to worry about Russia international standing anyway? That is for Putin and Lavrov to worry about. Maybe she should worry about US international standing for a change?
Peter, Mladenovac, Serbia
What Russia Did was simply to protect its interest and saves lives in South Ossatia, same way the Americans did invading Iraq!! Recognising South Osatia and Abkhazia states is equal to the west recognising Kosovo...Selling weapons to Iran and Venezuela is just like antimissile shield in Europe!!!
Saeed , Dubai, U.A.E
Quico the Monroe doctrine was superceded by the truman doctrine:
Truman called upon the U.S. to "support free peoples who are resisting attempted subjugation by armed minorities or by outside pressures,"
mdzengel, Boston, USA
The Russians will base nuclear tipped warheads in those countries if the west does not act. Russia needs to learn they cannot do whatever they want to whoever they want! If they need to become an irradiated parking lot then they will learn this lesson!!!
Jack, Los Angeles, USA
There will be no peace until the Russian government learns it cannot go into a peaceful democratic country and wipe its army and infrastructure out just because they disagree with its politics! Maybe if Russia becomes a glass desert for the next 10,000 years they will catch on?
Jack, Los Angeles, USA
Grow up Jim. Do you honestly think that a newly aggressive Russia gives a jot about a peace loving Scotland. Small countries like Latvia & Estonia have no desire to rejoin their previous masters but are seen as misguided children who should return to the Motherland.
David Paterson, Lauder, Scotland
i dont agree with russia selling arms to iran,but then again why do the yanks think they can dictate who can or cant have arms around the world.the americians are only adding fuel to the fire by wanting to base missle defence systems in europe.america is the biggest threat to world peace.
davy, cloughey, nr ireland
the truth of the matter is it dont matter who sell what to who,one thing is certain the political leaders of the the countries involved in world war 3 or armageddon as i see it,they or their children wont die in it.just the average joe bloggs on the street trying to earn a crust and pay the bills.
davy, cloughey, nr ireland
Jim in Scotland - don't worry if Obama is elected we're all screwed worldwide - hope you have a lot of the color red in your closet.
Secondly - define peace - there can never be peace without war - evil neccessity!
CB, Port St. Lucie, USA
If the US strikes
And Russia responds (or vice versa)
Who will then collect the bones?
What is a brave and well-equipped army against an intercontinental ballistic missile?
Unfortunately, there's no good and no evil in politics.
Dmitry, Moscow,
If Americans want peace, they can vote for a President who is
likely to give that wish. If the Americans want war then do the same.
If the British want peace think of what you are doing. Brown
supported Blair in Iraq. Milliband is another Blair. Hopefully we
Scots will vote for Peace.
Jim , Irvine, Scotland
America has forgotten the wisdom of the Monroe doctrine and the Roosevelt correlary to said doctrine: we'll stay out of Europe's business, but European powers should stay out of the Americas. Leave Georgia to Russia, and warn Chavez that undermining regional stability won't be tolerated.
Quico, Golden, USA
This debate is crucial to the upcoming election. Americans need to decide if they want a president who will engage with russia and others speaking from a postion of strength or one who will continue the beligerent 'dont blink' approach while the US's relative economic and military strength declines
james, london,
America is Playing with fire by biting the fingers that's feeding him", does America realized that if Russian & China sell off their bonds in open market & demanded payoff from American on their Foreign Reserves - will means and end to US empire??
Time is nearer..bob
Borri, Roma, Italy, Italy
US is country #1 in arms sales. US military budget is $600 bln, Russia's, China's $50 bln each. US military spending is more then military spending of ALL countries combined together! Oh, those aggressive Russians, Chinese, Venezuelans. I think they all are just afraid of US. Who is next Saddam?
vlad, Huntsville, Alabama
Russia is nothing but a communist paper tiger with no econonmy. Without a corrupt government that takes over private citizen's oil companies and makes them into State assets they have zero economy. Corruption has invaded them and their Old Army leaders do not have the mental capacity to lead. a joke
Jeff, Dallas, USA
Speaking of Iran, they still owe US a lot for 1953-1979.
Billy Blind, New York, USA
As a spokesperson of Bush and his cronies, Rice should have chosen her words with greater care. Commenting that Russias international standing is worse now than at any time since 1991 is foolish when the standing of one's own country has reached a historic minimum.
Bob, Hotchkinsson, Illinois, USA
No need to worry.Things like this happen after you bring democracy and free trade to a country. All the sudden, before you know it they begin competing with you! Damn them commi-no..... competitors!
kaw kaay shion, waukesha, wi, usa
Everybody sells everybody arms, its nothing new. Im sure USA sells as much if not more arms as Russia. America and Russia are actually laughing because fear produces money and cooperation while eliminating free thinking. Open your eyes.
Joe Blow, CHICAGO, USA
Whenever I read that Condaleeza Rice says something, I close my eyes and skip to the next paragraph. She has absolutely zero credibility and is a liar through and through.
If she claimed it was day, I would consider it a lie. The entire world is waiting to be rid of this abomination.
mystic, new york city,
How dare Rice say anything about Russia and it's attitude, look what america has done over the years, pot calling the kettle black by the looks of it.
tom, Pwllheli, Wales
As the Russians decide that these are their friends of choice in the newly developing paradigm, they might as well kiss bye-bye to their stock market and investment in their economy. Money talks, and their economy and market will ultimately decide for Putin that this is folly and his demise!
John Bonnington, Pasadena, California, USA
I agree with Mr Gray that Russia is acting exactly as predicted. But the US is by no means ignorant. Georgia and the US knew exactly what they were doing when they invaded South Ossetia to force a response from Russia. The fact that Russia is now arming so called rogues states is now inevitable.
David, London, UK
The West took their eye off the ball with Russia & let in the hawks to chase a man in a cave & have a vendetta in Iraq. Big mistake they should have brought Russia into the fold when they had the chance instead of romancing only their old satelite states. Now we have a new cold war to deal with
Mark F., Gt.Yarmouth., England
Wouldn't it be nice if Russia exported something worthwhile just for a change? Preferably something that does not explode or kill or burn.
All they have is oil and cheap weapons. They make nothing that consumers want to buy. Such is the legacy of communism.
Leonid, Kiev,
The economy and infrastructure of US existed in the conditions of Cold War. Cold War has ended. The infrastructure remained. Russia has had time to be reconstructed, but not US. Now USA is engaged in search of the new/old opponents.
Dmitry, St. Petersburg, Russia
To Theodor, Haifa,
Good remark, Theodor. But different opinions in some situations are not the proof of democracy. It is simply because people in the USA and Europe understand that not all is so well in their "kingdoms". And the fact that overwhelming majority of people in Russia support our country is it not the result of brainwashing, it is our right reaction to incorrect behavior of West.
Boris, Moscow, Russia
I think, we must do everything to prevent World WarIII. We suffered a lot in the WW2. Millions of people, fathers, brothers, sons died. They didnt deserve to live that short... Niether our generation deserves it... War isnt the way out for ppl to live in peace. It"s the way for common ppl to die..
Nina, Yekaterinburg, Russia
Russia is acting in its own interests--just like every other country in the history of the world. As soon as both Russia and the West get out of their "we're always right--they're always wrong" mindset, maybe we can accomplish something. The present administration's obstinance makes matters worse.
Montana Erik, Missoula, Montana
I think Russia is the greatest, supporting the independence of South Ossetia from the oppressive Georgians. If only they would support Welsh and Scottish independence, too! And Texas and California, as well. But i don't know why they're so worried by a few little missile systems on their borders.
Nigel, Berkeley, CA, USA
Why shouldn't Russia supply defensive arms to Iran which is threatened by the the US and Israel? The US stuffs its ally Israel with weapons. Russia's actions just level the playing field a bit. And Condoleezza Rice lecturing Russia on bad behavior? She knows all about that.
John, Lisbon, Portugal
real simple...AGI flips over, Amercan taxpayers foot the bill to prevent european economy to suffer.
Russia...decides to close their stock exchange so they don't have to lose. now think if they cared about Europe would intervene to assist the situation???
Roberto, Sterling, USA
How can the world ever progress when we the majority of people in it think the best way to solve a dispute is by being aggressive and confrontational. You only have to look at a lot of these comments to see what I mean. I can't believe people are squabbling about who helped who in WW2 now, amazing!
adrian, Derby, UK
Give me the button - I'll push it and end it all!. The rhetoric on here from ALL sides is terrible, why don't we just end it now
Paul, Milton Keynes, England
The difference between the West and Rusiia can be seen from the comments published here: all the Russians suppot Putin's policy. The westerners' opinions spread from right to left. So, who's indoctrinated and who's a free thinker?
Commies are alive and they will return.
Theodor, Haifa,
This is part of a plan to destroy the United States. Terrorists will place Scud missiles on cargo ships. These missiles will be aimed at NY and Washington. Read the latest book by Joel C. Rosenberg.
joey, Tucson, USA
Will grimsby you may have fought it alone but if not for the U.S supplying you during the battle of Britain then you would have failed to out live a siege while Germany rampaged the rest of Europe!
nick, Anchorage, US
Here's enlightenment: 1) Russia is acting exactly as predicted by Anatoliy Golitsyn's book "New Lies for Old" and the final phase before WWIII is at hand 2) U.S. still ignorant of this plan and too arrogant to see it 3) EMP&Nukes will be used to cause U.S. fall, 4) EU form 1 world govt 5) Armageddon
Michael Gray, Sacramento, California, USA
Iran getting missiles to counter US, what a joke do you think we need to "fly in there to destroy their infrastructure we will just "shock and awe" them from a few thousand miles away with satellite guided bombs. We jsut target the missile sites and then fly in at our leisure.
nick, Anchorage, US
I don`t proud with all we are doing now, but it is need-to-do-thing. It will prevent the US to strike imprudently on this contries, and thus it will prevent heavy human casualties from both sides. It is all about being humane, don`t you see?
Peter, Vladivostok, Russia
neil murphy is right time to lift the restrictions from cuba and allowing them to start trade with us. maybe we can get around the offshore ban by getting more from them. If we can deal with China why not start with Cuba Castro will be dead soon anyway.
nick, Anchorage, US
Re Mac, Florida: I sure hope that you are wrong about Russia.
A country on the brink of collapse is one that has little to lose.
The west shows little regard for their prospective in arming and using their former satellites with missiles.
Al Beatty, Calgary,
USA can go and bully someone else. We in Russia just do not care. There will be no state USA in a couple of years any way. USA are bankrupt both economically and politically so RIP.
Igor, Sakhalin, Russia
Russia economy is plummeting, and so is the rest of the world. That is because of the economic mishandling and steady collapse of US.
Dk, San Fernando,
will,
I guess you don't remember all the US Merchant Marines that lost thier lives bringing supplies to you, long before we formally entered WWII.
Rod, Los Angeles, USA
On the plus side, Bond movies in the near future should have infinitely more material to work with.
Tom, Dallas, USA
There's a HUGE difference between dealing with radical islam post 911 which has no one single country to hold accountable (with one exception - IRAN) then dealing with a world power like Russia. They are foaming at the mouth to be a world leader again and will dig up its communist past to get there
Jeff, Colorado Springs, USA
It has take a long time, and significant international friendships to wake me up from the USA Matrix. Rule:don't believe anything you read or watch in the American or British press. Americans are asleep, and the lapdog Brits are insane! The US empire is over. Fact: Russia won WWII before US got in.
Dale, Tallahassee, FL, US
Uh, Marco Borg he said "demolish air defense network", not "wage years long war of occupation". Do you see the difference? What he's saying is generally true, but you allow blind partisanship and Bush/USA hatred to color your narrow perception too much.
Try again.
JCD, Indianapolis, USA
The F117 did not "fail completely" in Serbia, one was shot down many others completed their missions with success.
Witness the F117's success over Iraq in the first couple weeks of that war they experienced 100% success.
Pretty weak and incomplete analysis on your part.
JCD, Indianapolis, USA
Who are you to say their weapons aren't better than yours... You put your self in this position by wanting to put missiles in Poland and Czech. And if you haven't noticed your economy is not better off...i see a giant company folding or being saved by your nine trillion debt united states government
Rajan, Toronto, Canada
I'm astounded at the number of pro-Russian pro-Putin/Medeved comments from Europeans and others from the west. You people stand to lose EVEN MORE than America by a huge margin if Russia has it's way on all of this. Way to go. Keep letting that America/Bush hatred cloud your better judgement.
JCD, Indianapolis, USA
Let's see... Since collapse of USSR Russia attacked only one country after it was attacked first. At the same time US attacked Serbia, Iraq, Afghanistan... without being directly attacked by them. Yeah, you right, Russia is aggressive country. Something needs to be done about them.
Vitaliy, Sacramento, USA
I support the US, but we must not go too far within Russia's sphere of influence. It is a mistake. Now Russia is entering our sphere. Of course, Russia is aiding Iran, and Iran is a serious menace while Georgia, Poland, etc. are not. Let's hope this will all end in secret cooperation -- US & Russia.
Edwin Rowe, Chicago, USA
Want to make $s? Buy oil below $100 and hang on for a year or so. The current downdraft isn't going to last as the tension in the Middle E heats up. Russia understands the formula: sell arms to Iran, make $ from sales, cause tension, raise oil price, prosper with oil, more power.
Ed, Fairfax, VA, USA
WWAD - What would America do? If Some other country located rockets in Mexico, radars in Canada to protect itself from ... let's say Panama. And then dozens of US peace keepers would get killed. The answer is simple - you can ask Saddam. Oops, never mind.
Vitaliy, Sacramento, USA
Yeah people, Russia is the good guy. Look who they continually partner with - every brutal, Communist and dictatorial regime that exists. It is they who have always allied themselves against whoever the US supports. What's wrong with your judgment?
Chris, Tulsa, OK
Can't we all just come together and give a tight hug!? Seriously though... Russia has thousands of nuclear missiles. It would be stupid of us to try and take them on! By placing 10 interceptor missiles designed for rogue nations shouldn't be a threat to Russia! This is just stupid!
Aaron, Anoka, USA
You sure about that Dave? if Russian military power is just a paper tiger, US would have invaded Russia a long time ago like it's done in Iraq.
Not to mention US has done nothing more to "punish" Russia than wag its fingers. And last time I checked, it's the US economy collapsing. So yes, dream on.
Dk, San Fernando,
>The interceptors are designed to stop ballistic missile attacks from Iran...<
I have not seen more idiotic statement than this. How about Russia would install interceptors in Cuba to protect the USA from Argentinian missiles. Sounds very reasonable. Stop watching the Simpsons all the time.
Peter, Odessa, Ukraine
US set a precedent with Kosovo - why should Kosovars get their own state and not say the South Ossetians or Abhkazians - who were never really Georgian anyway.
Why no outrage over Sakashvili bombing civilians..
RE: Iran the US overthrew democraticly elected president and put in a dictator in 1954.
p, Vancouver, Canada
As an american I have a legacy helping countries throw off repression, such as the Pacific Rim, Kuwait, and yes Europe. I am amaze at how history has changed for many of you. One of you stated that England alone won the Battle of Britian Pilots came from all over even the USA, Canada, NZ, Aus too
Richard , Bangor, Maine, USA
Why all the furore over what the US does all the time? F16s to India, Australia, UK arms to Saudi Arabia... business is business. Seems the press wants to paint different pictures with the same scenario.
Howard, Manchester,
Russia is a country in the throws of collapse. But, they are not going to go quietly. Putin and the rest of the old-school Kremlinistas have taken the country back on the path it was on since 1917 and away from a viable future. In the meantime, they are going to put the rest of the world at risk.
Mac, Florida, USA
Russian weapons are one of the best in the world. Cheap, reliable, simple. Long live Rosoboronexport! US sells tons of weapons via humanitarian aid to countries "suffering" from "imperialist barbarian" Russia)))) Who knows how many Tomahawks private US companies sold all over the world...Hypocrites
Alex Meshkov, Novosibirsk-Beijing, Russia-China
by golly, if Texas secedes from the union, I will go and fight with them against the tyrannical federales.
Bob Hawes, Tulsa, usa
Why not? The US is stationing its missile systems and sending its military to train soldiers in Russia's neighbours; so Russia selling weaponry to Iran & Venezuela should not be questioned. I expect Russia to carrry on this approach to check US aggression in any part of the world. Good on you Russia
S K Lin, Georgetown, Malaysia
I don't understand the warmongering and claims that the US stealth bombers can destroy.. They failed completely in such a small country as Serbia in 1999, where the first ever downing of F-117 happened... The best way is to partner with Russia. Napoleon and Hitler already tried the other approach...
Dragan, Falls Church, USA
Russia is a paper tiger. Their weapons are no match for the technology of the US military. Dream on, Putin. You've bullied all foreign investors so now your economy is collapsing. Brilliant move!
Dave E, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
America is turning into a communist country and is stuck in Afghanistan. Putin knows what it's like and knows he is free to do whatever he wants, No one can stop him.
Bastiat, San Diego, USA
"our stealth bombers could demolish any medium-sized country's air defense network in a matter of days without (US) casualties. " Too true! Witness Afghanistan and Iraq!
Any prospective American stooge in Europe or Asia should also think- Vietnam, Ukraine, Georgia etc
Marco Borg, London, United Kingdom
Putin stated his case over an extended period of time that Russia was not comfortable with the expansion of NATO to it's borders. He told us the we [the west] were "not listening." The US - Condi Rice - has done a terrible job with the Russia relationship. So they now do this. I am Republican.
robert, boston, us
Why should the US worry? They'll be able to sell replacements to Israel for any aircraft shot down. It will be good for US industry.
Bill Peter, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
For 50 years the Europeans begged the U.S. to become involved in their political squables.....then for 50 years they complained about the U.S. being involved in their squables.......the only constant is their hand being extended for one form of benefit or another while they vocalize their criticism.
James, Santa Barbara, USA
Byron, get out of Austin and go live in Putin's Russia. There are a lot of things wrong with the misplaced aggression of the past 8 years of the Bush administration. But don't be so reactionary, one-sided as to glorify a dictator like Putin at the expense of the country that brings u such freedom
Jason, Austin,TX, USA
Russia appears to be emulating all the features of criminal regime. The problem is that Putin is displaying similar features to Hitler at a time in history very similar to the 1930s. I just hope my children survive. We need a strong Europe as the US is on its knees as a result of greed.
Stephen O'Mara, Tamworth, Australia
Russia's recent bravado is like taking a swing at someone who's already fighting sixteen other people at the same time. If we weren't immersed in a broad, Middle East conflict, Putin and company would keep their mouths shut and behave.
Jay, Houston, usa
We here in europe are blind. The usa has helped out most of the world. They stand for peace and democracy and freedom for everyone. (Although..they are not perfect...who is? ) While us polite europeans are literally being taken over before our very eyes we choose to turn a blind eye until it will be too late for us. But we're ok with that because we rather be comfortable and let our children worry about it. The USA is the only country (maybe besides Israel) that stands for truth. Most of you will ofc disagree but I do believe this is how many view the situation but don't talk about it. Remember...we're european...we think about things but dare not speak them.
Brock davis, Delft, The Netherlands
Iran needs to buy a lot more of this stuff if it is going to have any chance of stopping a concerted US attack. As it is, our stealth bombers could demolish any medium-sized country's air defense network in a matter of days without (US) casualties. Iraq had plenty of Russian-made SAM systems....
Mark, Somerville, Massachusetts, USA
What has the West done to enable Russia to enter the WTO? The threat to stop the membership now shows up the double standards at work. After all, the West ensured that the first former Soviet Republic, not counting the Baltic states, to enter the WTO was not Russia, but Kyrgyzstan!!
Mike, London, UK
Cory from US, Russia also helps with humanitarian aid (eg in China's earthquake & in Serbia to clean up NATO mines) as do other countries so let's not get all holy about USA.
Also, does anyone actually think Iran would attack first? It is US&Israel itching for it,Iran needs weapons to deter them.
Maria, London, UK
What Putin is can be best exemplified by his actions & friends: Restriction of the press, the invasion of democratic Georgia, aiding low-life dictators such as those found in Iran and Venezuala. Nothing good has ever come out of a Russian-controlled government! The Russians just don't get it!
WSF, Owosso, USA
Russia is taking the right position. Our country has become highly socialized, and is now entering a phase of highly fascist foreign policy based on warfare.
TEXAS should do the right thing and seceed from the USA.
Byron Ledbetter, Austin, Republic of Texas
If USA wouldn't be so aggressive in rhetorics about Iran, Venezuela or Korea, so the world wouldте need so much... it would be no demand....
Russia also need money to go against world money crisis to help banks
Sasha, St.Peterburg, Russia
If USA wouldn't be so aggressive in rhetorics about Iran, Venezuela or Korea, so the world wouldте need so much... it would be no demand....
Russia also need money to go against world money crisis to help banks
Sasha, St.Peterburg, Russia
With more hostility US speaks and acts toward Russia, with more hostility Russia responds. It is a huge mistake to think if US pressures Russia hard enough, Russia will "behave". The current US political tactics just doesn't work.
Alex, Seattle, USA
Wake up you stupid liberals, Russia seeks to dominate through control of energy. They have been busy for the last 10 years gobbling up all the oil and gas rights they can get their hands on, meanwhile the US and Euro doddle on climate change, p*ssing away our opportunty to become energy independent
Brad, Seattle, USA
Russia is also trying to lay claim to the Arctic, it is clearly expansionist and a massive threat and we have to treat it the same as the cold war era. Time also to destabilise chavez until gone, but offer friendship to Cuba, if they keep Russia out.
Neil Murphy, cromer,
The foreign policy of this administration is a disaster: first they start a needless war which results in Iraq falling into Iran's sphere of influence, then they provoke a needless confrontation with Russia with predictable results. Actually, there is little chance of this provoking WWIII.
Michael Landis, Guilford, Vermont, U.S.A.
That's okay. Iran will someday use these systems against the Russians much the same way Iraq and Aghganistan used American-supplied systems against the US. And Hugo Chavez will use them on his own people in an attempt to remain ruler-for-life.
Daryl, Mpls, MN, USA
why do people insist on moral equivolence between nato and russia? nato is a democratic body that people ask and have to prove themselves worthy to join. russia is just picking a fight for no reason other than the chip it has on its shoulder.
chris barnette, we won that battle of britain alone.
will, grimsby, uk
Stop iran...The longer we wait the more danger is a head. cold war has already started.
Europe is in greater danger than you think..Any U.S president no matter republic or democrat should keep Ms Rice as an advisor.she is well informed .I hope the next president can play chess.Talk is not enough.
Sam Etemadi, toronto, Canada
USA is the country that sells more weapons in the world, to every kind of country including feudalist, dictatorships, or armed groups. Indeed, USA sells nuclear material, and has started most of the latest wars. Continue that way, WWIII is very close, provoked by you!
alberto, spain,
Thanks to goofs like Piskolti and his ilk which infiltrated
the Roosevelt administration, parts of the US government, and the left in the US, thinking communists were the shining light of the future, the soviets were able to prosper
and be directly responsible for the deaths of MILLIONS
Thanks
M Wryley, Omaha,
Chris Barnett, just so you know, Swiss people already speak German.
Horace, Florence, Tuscany, Italy
In addition now Russia and Iran are arranging a deal to include exacting operational-tactical missiles Iskander too. When Iran obtains the missiles it will be able to strike any American war sheep to come into The Gulf or Arabian Sea to bar supply of their troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Alexey, Moscow,
America will do nothing to stop Russia. We only attack countrys that are weak.
Johnny, L.A California, USA
We better set Iran back a "few" years( one thousand will do!) before the late model Russian anti-aircraft systems get in place.
Besides, we owe them plenty for the 1970s capture of our embassy, and their current production of manufactured (EFP) land mines that have killed many of our troops.
Marcus (Retired Air Force Pilot), Tampa ,Florida, USA
Putin and Chavez are like Achmedinejad--they stoke unrest in order to increase the price of oil. Russian defenses in those countries will have about as much success as the Syrian air defenses against Israel earlier this year. Embarrassing.
Cord, San Clemente, USA
To Mr. Bacon,
Russia does not qualify in violating the Monroe Doctrine. It is neither a European nor Asian power. It is simply Russian. Don't put them into a box with your thinking.
Patrick, Osaka, Japan
To all those with a sense of outrage lets be clear no-one is forcing any country to join NATO. Until recently Russia was cooperating with NATO. Short term opportunism in Georgia is costing the Russian economy dearly because there is no rule of law in the country. Dr P grow up this is all very old.
Graham, Westlake, US via UK
Wise Leadership = Nevil Chamberlain or Winston Churchill. Be careful what you wish for.
America is the ONLY nation to stand up to brutal regiems. When we fall....you will too!
Will, Anytown, USA
People have known this was coming for a long time. Still, it's amazing to watch it unfolding before our eyes. Read the 38th chapter of Ezekiel to see how it all turns out.
Christina, Birmingham,
Countries are quick to applaude any opposition to the U.S., yet, when the storm begins, they call big brother to their defense. They want us as an ally when they need us, not when we need them. Swiss, French, and British need to remember that they would be speaking German had we not waxed Hitler.
chris barnette, greensboro, u.s.
jacob, maybe you should move to Venezuela or to an arab country
Mike Johnson, pompano bch, fl
sure is a dangerous game but we offered the Russians to participate in our Star Wars, they could have copied it. Now they have to face the Chinese and the West; very dangerous move, in deed.
Let's shake it up a bit and let the best man win.
Hansje, Dayton, USA
If Iran bought S-300's now, months would pass before trained Iranian crews manned them. The U.S. might well strike before then. And even if it waited, these SAM's could not save any target in Iran, but only make it harder for the U.S. to destroy.
Mike Hollins, L.A., U.S.
USA can not do what they are doing now. We will have a major nuclear war. Russians had their peacekeepers under UN mandate in Osetia and they were killed in night attack. I doubt that it was without US approval.
Arnold, Geneva, Switerland
The Monroe Doctrine has been in place since the 1800s. It says that if any European power attempts to exert its influence in the Western Hemisphere that we will go to war to stop them. We should put a naval blocade around Venezuela and teach these countries teh consequences of alying with Russia.
Roger Bacon, Miami, USA
With McCain/Palin we will reach World War III sooner then anybody expects. We need WISE WISE leadership, who treat other nations as partners and consider their interests as well.
Why US supports agressor Georgia and wants Georgia in NATO so badly? Georgia is located very close to Iran, convinient..
Alex, Seattle, USA
I think most people in the world forget exactly how much money the United States gives away to countries all over the world, even to countries who despise it. Not only money, but also humanitarian aide to all sorts of natural catastrophes. Let peace reign supreme and never forget the generosity
Cory, Corvallis, OR, USA
Very simple policy response is in order.
A missile launch from Iran or Venezuela with Russian-provided armaments will be regarded as a direct attack from Russia.
It goes back to the John Kennedy doctrine. No surprises from use; nothing new.
Hubbard, LAGRANGE, GEORGIA, USA
Daphne
Venezuela has not done more to help the poor people than Americans you are out of touch big time the US did more to help poor people in the last for hours than Chavez has done at all Venezuela is a third world country he doesn't even help his own people GET REAL
Jerry, clifton park, USA
If Russia wishes to offer military support to Iran then Europe should cease trade with them and do without their resources. The greater disadvantage will be to them.
Chris, London,
EVERYONE READY FOR WORLD WAR 3?????
Jacob, portland, united states
Venezuela, has done more to help poor countries, than the so called SUPER POWER, ever has. That encludes POOR AMERICANS. ARABS has done more to help poor BLACK people in NEW Orleans than George Bush. I don't even know why Black people are fighting Arabs for American RED NECKS?.& have no rights.
Daphne Kenward, Cambridge, UK
Why do you play the same "dangerous game" Dr.Rice? Why did you begin this game?
Stan, Volgograd, Russia
As an American, I have to say that my country is having to eat its Karma burger. Too bad that the good will have to suffer along with bad. We all should have stood up against the evil a long time ago while we could have done so in a non-violent manner. Now it's too late for that.
Kim, Dallas, Republic of Texas
Russian technology is stone age compared to the stuff we're using now. The next generation of military hardware from the U.S. will leave them totally in the dust. We have nothing to worry about.
Steve, Birmingham,
"I don't know what weapons World War Three will be fought with, but World War four will be fought with sticks and stones."
~Albert Einstein~
John, anytown, USA
Russia reminds me of that fat kid in high school that has so little self confidence and gets easily bored so he goes and tries to pick a fight to reassure itself. Venezuela reminds me of that fat kids conspiracy theorist friend that always wants to talk big because his fat friend will have his back.
Russ, Austin, U.S.A.
What does the US have to worry about? Don't they have the best army? Hm...Apparently not anymore.
Andreas Andreou, Cyprus,
Putin is gonna spank Obama.
Mark, Edneyburg, usa
There will not be another cold war, my friends we are headed to World War III quicker than I thought! To all that live in The United States of America it wouldn't be a bad idea to stock up on food, and stuff that is necessary! History is unfolding in front of us all so open ur eyes! McCain/Palin08
Brent, USA,
I am so happy Russia has started to play the same "game" as the US.The expansionist US regime, in its imperialistic mode, has been setting up military bases all over the world and encircling Russia, training local militias in ex- USSR member states and providing weapons.Bravo Medvedev,bravo Putin.
Dr. Szabolcs Piskolti, Signy, Switzerland
the yanks want it every way it is about time the realised that they cannot arm Russias near neighbors, and not expect Russia to do the same.
Graham Bromley, Rotherham, UK
I can not understand how the US government can say anything about the Russians in Georgia when the US is neck deep in IRAQ and AFGANISTAN with no end in sight.
Corey Wallace, Grande Prairie, Canada
Double-plus ungood.
Jordan, Texarkana, USA
I'm a conservative person politically, but I can't stand the inept way my country has been dealing with Russia. And it will come back to haunt us sooner rather than later, unfortunately. Or possibly sooner and then later, too.
Gregory Scott, Houston, Texas
Hmmmm Cold war 2 or world war 3?
Thomas, NY, USA