I suppose if it was an English ship with English arms and English hostages, the Royal Navy would just sit around some dock instead of sending a boat or two...

Farrukh, Woking,

He intends to "rescue" all the satellite Countries that have become Countries in themselves

Russians think eastern europeans were just "a pain in the neck", during the soviet empire, and they DO NOT want to bother about them again . Unless ANYONE ELSE "bothers" . No US missiles, no problems...

Leonard, Sardinia,

Russia was killing her people by throwing them against massed German machine guns

Not only throwing "people", but also T34 tanks (the best in the 1st half of the war) and Katyusha rockets . Thank God you were not a german on eastern front (although it should have been a lesson for you...)...

Leonard, Sardinia,

America was fighting effectively on seven fronts, and the UK on nine.

US: Pacific, Africa, Italy, France (THEN Germany): 4 fronts .
GB: New Guinea, Burma & surroundings (with Singapur), Ethiopia, N.Africa, Italy, France (then Germany): 6 fronts (to be precise) .
Where are the others ?

Leonard, Sardinia,

liberated from it by Yeltsin, it finds itself slipping back into autocratic hands under Putin.

Uh ? Then why in 1999 the Eltsin's rating in Russia was BELOW the present GWB's rating in USA, and Putin's rate now is about 60-70% ?

Leonard, Sardinia,

Gangland diplomacy?! What gang is Russia in being on its own. The only gang I see here are the usual suspects US, UK, Australia, Canada, N.Zealand and their less proinent members in NATO. A gang is a group and the only group I see here is NATO which has time and again acted together bullying others!

James, Leicester, UK

Well, hope the global market that so well regulated american's problems will do the same in Russia.

Smart ("well regulated" is an irony, ain't it ?) . But, helas, "free market" is not yet so "free" (and hedge-funded) in Russia...

Leonard, Sardinia,

That is just my point. Putin's end game was exactly this. He wants Russia back the way it was.
He intends to "rescue" all the satellite Countries that have become Countries in themselves.

Hopefully they will run out of money before too much damage is done. Their Oil is already drying up.

Carrie, London,

Carrie, Communism is the 'Left' wing of Socialism just as National Socialism is its 'Right wing.
Russia was one of the captive nations within the USSR [Union of Socialist Socialist Republics], liberated from it by Yeltsin, it finds itself slipping back into autocratic hands under Putin.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada

Well.
As Russia "elected" a man who call the USSR dissolution "the worst event in twentieth century" (bye bye Shoah...), we can worry about a powerful russian army...And about a "niet diplomacy"...

Well, hope the global market that so well regulated american's problems will do the same in Russia.

Titouan Lemoine, Toulouse, France

What a waste.

mark peters, pierce city, USA

I can't find gas to fill my car here in Atlanta. There are plenty of more urgent things for Americans to worry about than Russian fleet sailing to Venezuela.

Dan, Atlanta, USA

Andrew, Sydney,
Well, it didn't work very well did it?

For Communism read- Paranoid. Plus the far left of Socialism is so close to Communism, you could cut it with a knife.

As we are starting to see, both China and Russia now have some money. With it comes trouble. Big trouble.

Carrie, London,

I grew up during the Cold War. Now it's back again. Did our leaders get a little bored between then and now?

Danny Maccabee, Madison, WI, USA

The US is 1 hair away from collapse. We are a divided nation. Half speak English, half Spanish. 50% democrat vs 50% repub. Most of our school age kids can barely read, we have debts we'll never pay off, and you REALLY think the US will keep up in the 21st century? We'll be lucky to still be united.

Nick, New York, New York, USA

Carrie...do you even know the basic definition of "communism"? Russia WAS socialist which is the first step to the "ideal" vison known as communism, as defined by Karl Marx.

Andrew, Sydney,

The average salary is 800 dollars? per year, per week. per month???
Russia has never been a socialist country, it's been communist since they killed their Royal Family.

A few Russians have made Billions on the backs of their own people. How nice, then they left, never to return, Says it all.

Carrie, London,

When Russia was killing her people by throwing them against massed German machine guns, and killing her own children in political purges, America was fighting effectively on seven fronts, and the UK on nine.
Russians are good at dying and enduring Stalin and Hitler, but don't know how to win.

lee, Alexandria, VA, US

The ignorance displayed by some American readers is amazing. Some of them surely missed the end of the 20th century . They seem to bei gnorant that Russia is no longer a socialist country, that its economy is market-based and that the country's average salary is now 800 dollars.

Nicholas, Moscow, Russia

The sinkable Peter da' Great, surrounded by more subs than it can count during its lovely cruise to Latin America. Alll -- aboard...

Cindy, Coastal,

"One of the world's most formidable warships" ??? We could slip an F-22 Raptor inside their radar envelope and decimate them and they'd never see it coming. Now THAT'S formidable.
-
If RF tech is SOOO backward, why are you so scared by RF sending its AA systems to Iran ? See less movies, please...

Leonard, Sardinia,

Jim, Charlotte, NC, USA

Erm, them, please.

Matt, London, UK

Their ground forces are under equipped and under trained.

Tell it to the Georgians...They did not notice that...

Leonard, Sardinia,

Russia has no chance of resupply in a conflict in Central America. Any Russian naval vessel in the Caribbean probably has a life expectancy of minutes if hostilities break out. And they know it. It amazes me how many of you are so pleased to see Russia reassert itself militarily. Read a history book

The Bobfather, Saratoga Springs, NY, USA

Its about time Russia acted to preserve democracy and peace against rogue plutocratic imperialistic states and entities like Nato, the uk and the usa.

keith bentham, Wigan, uk

Is this some kind of joke?

Jeff Hyman, Peyia, Cyprus

Intelligent Americans realize that Bush has destroyed our country. Financially - ruined. Morally - bankrupt. Gov. = big business. No freedom, no opportunity, no say. The US citizens fear their gov. instead of the gov. fearing them. The gov. will destroy the US - the world need only to watch.

L.A.Mueller, Litchfield Park, USA

I wish to apologize to the world for the acts of our "leader", Bush. We, the people of the U.S.A. have not had control of our government, for decades. We sat idley by, hands shackled, while Bush & friends have destroyed us. The US will fall due to it's own devices, no help needed. Greed = US.

Laurie Mueller, Litchfield Park, USA

It makes me laugh to read some Americans. Your country’s economy is a chronic invalid not able to survive. Above all military spending has caused the collapse. Open your eyes and stare at what to be happening inside the USA.

Alexey, Moscow,

Good! Its about time someone stood up to America. Id rather have an enemy that was clearly my enemy then have an enemy that pretended to protect democracy and export freedom.

Clive, UK, UK

Ben, it is not a matter of the USA pushing NATO towards Russia, it is a matter of the ex captive nations wishing to preserve their political freedom and national independence by attempting to gather under the protective aegis of NATO& the EU.
A peaceful Russia would not precipitate such a desire.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada.

I think we should stop this, pull out of Iraq, rebuild our military, update it and only use our military might only during conflicts.

As for Chavez, sure he bought 24 Russian jets, we have aircraft carriers that can hold a thousand.

James McCullough, Manhattan, New York, United States of America

This post is beginning to sound like a bunch of 'Janes' subscribers in a sports bar.

Olly, Sandbach,

My god! Those things still float??!!

Dave, Phoenix, AZ, USA

Good on you Russia about time nation's are standing up to the bullie's from Washington.

Tim, London, United Kingdom

I say support our friends and stop funding those who it is not in our self-interest to help. Develop our own resources and keep our defenses strong. All the treasure we spent in helping so called allies would have gone a long way in renewing our infrastructure, developing new sources of energy, and upgrading schools. Our so called friends will then say we are not doing enough to help the world.

Pete Gotowko, Waco, Texas, USA

I think Russia and the US should have some sort of buffer zones which they agree neither side should enter as this endangers the security of the world ad the two nuclear powers. It's wrong for the US to try to advance the frontiers of NATO to Russian boarders by incorporating former Soviet States.

BEN MARICHO, HARARE, ZIMBABWE

Russian ships ("tiny nonoperable fleet") sail to "miserable" Venezuela. I wonder why the US commenters are so exited? May be the ships carry tonnes of US dollar bank notes back home?

Denis, Moscow, Russia

To the minority (I hope) of Euros who feel we should not be getting involved with Russian actions in your backyard, I think you need to ask yourself who you would rather be aligned with, us or them. The choice is that clear. That simple. Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it.

Jim, Charlotte, NC, USA

These war games were planned ahead in year 2007, as one Russian general said, it is not a threat, just games. All americans will start to shout about cold war, few ships sailing somewhere. They are in a state of war with half of the world. There are more than 2 millions americans troops outside US!!

Igor, Sheffield, UK

The Russian military is defunct. Their soldiers are one of the lowest paid in the world. 60% of the soldiers and sailors are alcoholics. Their ground forces are under equipped and under trained. The American military might is the most feared in the world.

S.A. Leppard, Warner, NH, USA

Its about time Russia acted to preserve democracy and peace against rogue plutocratic imperialistic states and entities like Nato, the uk and the usa.

keith bentham, Wigan, uk

"One of the world's most formidable warships" ??? We could slip an F-22 Raptor inside their radar envelope and decimate them and they'd never see it coming. Now THAT'S formidable.

Bill, Lawrenceville, USA

When the undertrained crew and poor engineering manifest themselves how will ol' Hugo deal with the environmental impact of a runaway reactor core sitting in the water off his coast? Let him glow in the dark!

Brian, Miami, US

Let me make on thing perfectly clear Russia is thumbing their nose at us. We have invaded their hemisphere of power and now they are doing the same. This has gotten ridiculos! US should have never made those damn missle shields publicly known to the world! Of course thier against Russian ICBMS.

Chris , Pittsburgh, USA

I agree with Kelly, Cape May, USA, who said that us Europeans should me more thankful to the US. Without them we'd be under the boot of communists or fascists.
As for the Russians and the Venezuelans, I feel sorry for the intelligent populations of each country; it's an embarrassing time for them.

Michael, Torquay, UK

As a naval force and a as great power Russia is a has-been. Population demographic is falling off a cliff. They will waste all their oil wealth on rearmament. In a hundred years they will condemn Putin etc for not having spent the money on infrastructure and modernisation.
It's ridiculous.

David, Thibessart, Belgium

The United States has unwittingly given Russia a very legitimate reason to involve itself with South and Central America, with its imbecilic actions. Russia would be within its rights to deliver aid to gulf with this task force. Agrippa apparently thinks that a nuclear confrontation is wise.

Tom Martin, Huntsville, USA

Did someone mention the Kursk?
In reply #2 to this story
Dan, Kent, WA, United States of America
claims
"We, the U.S. sank the Kursk when it tried to demonstrate a 300 mph torpedo for sale to the Chinese capable of sinking an aircraft carrier"
wikipedia says
russians say it was torpedo

nanokiwi, Papakura, New Zealand

We are not perfect.But,Im a proud American.We need to STOP helping these true enemies over seas, no trade,be energy independent bring jobs to our people and leave these people to take care of themselves.Let them fight their own battles.It will save us billions that we need for our own country.

Shelley, Los Angeles, U.S.A.

Russia and Venezuela (and Iran) can be toppled by economic jujitsu.
-
Do you want to play economic jujitsu with a black belt judoka and the former chief of Gasprom ? I wish you good luck, you'll need it...

Leonard, Sardinia,

Russia still has (...)no aircraft carriers to project seapower.
-
Russia has ONE aicraft carrier, and projects for 6 in the next decades . Its navy is slowly recovering from the mess of 90es, and now has a bit less than half the power of USN . It's not a world class navy, just a blue-water one .

Leonard, Sardinia,

What do they teach our friends in Europe and Asia? That the US has not spent Trillions to feed the world's poor, not extended Trillions in debt (never to be collected), not provided economic and social stability to others. That Russia did not make a power & land grab after WWII (and wanted Asia)?

Tony, Lanesville, United States

The US is not at fault for Russia being dumb. Putin is just trying to get the US in awar with them because the think theyll win. But a socialist country such as them will never defeat a country as strong and proud as the US. most countreis of the world have been corrupted by government.

Gerry, Gavelston, USA

We (US) are like the drunk rich Uncle at the family reunion. The world acts embarrasses to know us, but never hesistates to stick out their hand for money, technology, entertainment, cars... et cetera. If you hate us so much, stop envying the by-products of our "failed" culture... hypocrytes.

j Frey, Norfolk, USA

Don't confuse the US intentions with that of the Russian Government. That is, to allow each country to its own prosperity, not conquer the masses, not control resources, not choke its population, not kill/jail its political critics, not support terrorism, not arm rogue nations. Hello Russia

Tony, Lanesville, United States

to the so-called peace loving europeans, there is one word: srebrenica. as long as western europe allows and will allow srebrenicas in their back yard, they are not in a position to morally criticize the us. even about guantanamo, which ranks much lower than srebrenica on the outrage scale.

david, florida,

Sorry for all of you, people of the Earth. You are so emotionally judging about ships you haven't seen, people you haven't met and countries you haven't visited. Politicians all around the world are doing great job in putting their nasty ideas into your heads to manage your votes. Wake up.

Dmitry, Moscow, Russia

Why cant America spend its Trillions to feed the poor of Africa and Asia instead of buying billion-dollar warships and fighter planes and threatening the world with them?? Its ruled by greedy politicians who are wasting tax-payers money on meaningless wars.... Have some peace!!

Sandy, Delhi, India

What do they teach our American friends in school? Do they really believe that they unilaterally won WW1 or WW2? Do they know U.K./Commonwealth stood with Russia against Germany alone for years before our friends joined in?

Or that it cost U.K. an Empire and a crippling loan to the U.S.A.?

john moore, windsor,

We, russians and europeans still have painful memories from WW2 about what the cost of war could be.
Americans, whowever, have not lost that much and as of thus are constantly spoiling for a fight and heat up world tensions with their corrupted policy. But I hope even they will learn someday.

Paladin, Yekaterinburg, Russia

And why do they keep harping on about us Europeans speaking German if it wasn't for them? Like they would still be speaking Apache if it wasn't for us, they mean (respect to Native Americans intended)?

I have much time for America, but say it isn't true that they learn a Hollywood history !

john moore, windsor, sl4 4dw

Is it any wonder Georgia and Ukraine feel threatened and the need to join NATO? Russia has shown her true colors. Now the Russians are reinforcing these lessons by flexing a little muscle and making nice with rogue states like Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba. Peace wasn't good enough for the Kremlin.

Russell H., Norfolk, USA

This is a provocative action. The best response is probably to ignore it. Or send a tug to follow just in case one of the ships breaks down.

Alex, Tunbridge Wells,

Remember that the U.S is a very young state, and as every toddler has to learn from it's mistakes, so do they.

Unfortunately the trigger happy U.S. govt. uses primitive means of communications.

Ask yourselves this; how many more "friends" have the U.S made the last 50 years ?

Erik, Stavanger, Norway

We Europeans,there are not East and West,are simply
fed up that someone,not European,tells us what we have or
what we do not have to do.That's why we love our freedon and
want to live in peace.Russia is part of Europa.The US or
Canada are not,

Bruno Benzi, Cesena, Italy

It is evident, from the postings, that Western Europeans have lost their bearings&their will to preserve their political freedoms;North America& Eastern&Central Europeans who value their freedoms,should re-approach China to form a new military&economic alliance in order to preserve theirs.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada.

The only question I have is . . .what are they going to use to tow it back?

Dave B, Huntington Beach, USA

This is a game of chess. USA must resume armed nuclear 52 approached to Russia immediately. We must respond to Chavez and his threats with a declaratiion of war and destroy him and his little army. Cuba as well. Let the Russians sail where they may with our planes and ships escorting them.

Agrippa, Berlin, USA

So Nato breaks treaties to enter the Black sea, but Russia within its right to sail the worlds ocean is the THUG? America invades Iraq on false pretences to secure Oil and its a liberator, US bombs Serbia to stop Genecide, but Russia is the THUG for stopping it in Georgia, your thinking is twisted.

Darren, London, UK

America has changed in a terrible way.. a dumb Texan is to blame. Like many Americans, he does not understand the world so cannot begin to fathom how diplomacy could often work.
Thankfully, there are a good number of inquiring Americans who want to understand.
Maybe not enough though

giles Clarke, NY,

To regain the pride and expand the old Soviet Union the USA needs to leave Europe and quit NATO, using Chavez as a pawn may cause that. The EU demonstrating weakness during the Georgian conflict would have me believe that the ultimate Russian goal now is to eat Kasha in Buckingham Palace.

Sens, Chicago , USA

If we were bombed by Russia, it wouldn't matter who is the president because we would all be dead. Our country and Russia have 95 percent of the worlds nuclear weapons. Russia is no Iraq, heck Iran is no Iraq.

Art, Colorado Springs, USA

It's only gangland diplomacy if we pay attention to it. God forbid Latin American countries have their own relations with superpowers bent on using them as pawns. Worked out well for Cuba, didn't it?

Leighton, Fairbanks, AK, USA

We send our ships to the Black Sea, and want to put missiles in Poland. What did we think? That they wouldn't respond? This response sounds like old school Cold War saber rattling, and was to be expected.

Heather, spokane, usa

Jeff W

You don't have to be afraid because none of those missiles are targeted at Fernandina.

Heather, spokane, usa

While I can respect the Russian navy and her sailors, I am concerned about her intentions. Do they propose to aid in the war on terror? If so, which side will they be on? Q: What would the world look like if Russia was the only superpower left? A: Georgia. The world should be glad America exists.

art, Modesto, CA, United States

I heard a rumour that the Russians were heading for Portsmouth but the weather was so bad they changed their minds and headed for the Caribbean.

What a storm in a teacup!

leila , manchester, uk

If Obama is elected and we were being bombed this very day his answer to this would be - Give me a couple of days to consult with my aids and then I will have an answer. This man is a definite danger to society!

Katee Campbell, Arnold, United States

Maybe Hugo Chavez didn't make their payment this last couple of months for the armaments they order and Russia brought their warship and submarines to collect payment! WOW! Russian Collection Agency. When are going to collect from the countries that owe us, let start with the one badmouthing us.

virgil, Castro Valley, USA

Big deal. The ship is barely operable and would not last 30 minutes in a shooting war. It's taking all the resources Russia's navy has just to sail this tiny fleet to the Caribbean. It's only the mass media that makes a big story out of it.

Jim, Newport Beach, USA

Don't worry people of the world! When we get Obama into power all will change. Wish us luck over the next month because clearly SOMEONE doesn't like the idea very much.

It's like when there's a drunk behind the wheel of a car - you have to reach in very carefully and remove the keys!

jr, Boise, USA

Paul from Birmingham,
Fact:You do NOT know what a democracy is. TO say that ithe US t is a totalitarian state speaks to your level of ignorance about the US.
Dictated by medica tycoons and oil barons? Uh, no. More like throughly divided by corporate interests and aggrieved special interest groups

ryan, ann arbor,

This is a result of nearly 8 years of neoconservative policies. Pres.Bush has done nothing but help make China, Russia, and India into potential superpowers, while severely weakening the U.S. Whatever control the U.S. is able to exert over Iraqi oil is nullified by the loss of Venezuela.

Susan Walker Fallow, Saint Louis, U.S.A.

Wow, listen to all the infuriated and cocky Americans gloating about what disrepair Russian finds herself. Need I remind anyone of the fact that Russia has paid off the Soviet Union's debts and we Americans are trillions in debt? We will loose this war. Our banks can't even stand w/o gov support.

Nick, New York, New York,

Hey, the Russians have the right to sail the seas too. It's no big deal. The west has to withdraw to their own borders and fix their economies - we should just keep a sufficient nuclear deterrent to prevent war and cut back on the conventional forces. Let the Russians enjoy themselves.

Andre, Machias, USA

Canadian Doug, would you welcome the Russian fleet in Canadian arctic waters, making a claim on Canadian territorial waters and the resources beneath?
I recognize that the USA poses a threat to the Western portions of the Arctic claimed by Canada, but at least we can negotiate with them to a degree.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada.

Europe and Canada are pathetic and have no Idea what they have because of the United States. They should all remember that is was America who came and Liberated Europe from the Germans. Heck let Russia rip Europe appart and see how they will realise were they stand in this world.

Steve, chicago , usa

Rob from Ottawa has a point, about American Capitalism, anyway. The entire banking system has, effectively, failed. Americans aren't going to stand for very many more tax increases, so do the math...America can't afford to build and maintain nations any longer.

Noah, IN, USA

It is quite upsetting to hear our canadian and UK brothers give such anti-american rhetoric. The last time I checked, we were fighting wars all over this world.Together that is. Supporting communistic societies is as if you are playing with the devil. Would you like to have loss a fam. member on 911

Alan S., San Antonio, Texas, USA

Fire the anti-American Democrats in the US, and drill for oil HERE and NOW. Russia and Venezuela (and Iran) can be toppled by economic jujitsu. The reference to 'gangland" tactics is spot on. As Vito advised: "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer." Use their greed against them.

Andy, Malvern, USA

The Bush Docturine with it's ideal of spreading democracy to every corner of the world will be done in a few months so everyone can relax. As for the ascertion that the US is evil and oppressive, you are welcome to your opinion. Personally, I hope we leave NATO; Europe can face Putin on its own.

Chris, Columbus, OH, USA

America IS failing and has no one to blame but itself. Militarily it is struggling and can't contain insurgencies in dirt poor countries of the South and now its capitalism is shown to be close to organized crime. I felt safer when the US was not our self appointed protector.

Rob Martin, ottawa, canada

T. Perry.....as a Canadian I agree with you. The lefties are all out in the east part of Canada where welfare and immigration have persuaded them to buy into the Marxist agenda! The balance of us are FOR the U.S. and see you as family! God bless AMERICA! If it wasn't for you we wouldn't be free!

b, edmonton, canada

Looks as if Putin is doing his best to get McCain elected; the sending Russian fleet to the Caribbean offers an excellent exercise opportunity for the US fleet, otherwise is of little interest.
A Chinese blue water fleet in the Baltic& Black Seas, now THAT would be interesting.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada.

I love to hear all the comments from these other pathetic nations who claim we are the unjust policemen of the world. If it wasn't for the USA, the world would be a lot scarier than it is today. Negative comments from the UK,and Canada are especially troublesome, I used to consider them our friends

Bill, Sioux City, IA, USA

Russian navy is always welcome in Canada. America isn't.

Doug, Toronto, Canada

Like a bunch of kids in the school yard...my daddy can beat your daddy up and the like. It is funny how no matter where you are...no matter what idealogy or political mind set you have it is always the PEOPLE of this or that country who suffer for the actions of their leaders...USA...Russia..

Billy, Long Beach, USA

Hypocritical, no "real" democracy, corrupt, greedy and ignorant of the majority view, hidden agendas and so on.

Pretty much describes most governments. In general people have no wish to profit from others misery, want peace, a roof over their head etc... Mugabe no oil, no interest, enough said.

Steve, Cardiff, UK

In terms of military might, Peter the Great and Admiral Chabanenko exceed all the fleets in North and South America combined — withstanding U.S. ships. Peter the Great has strategic nuclear arms, and that's enough in and of itself to sink two or three enemy cruisers.

Jon, Ellicotte, MD, USA

As a Canadian "neighbour" I find it sad to see a once great democracy immolate itself in the interest of corporate greed and paranoia. The USA's self appointed role as "policeman" to the world is nothing but self serving geo- politics designed to pad the bottom line of the mil/industrial complex

Dan, Toronto, Canada

i am as patriotic as any American, 5th generation "redneck", and i welcome this financial meltdown. it will effect a purge of the scoundrels in our midst, and allow the republic i love to surge to new heights. be careful what you wish for.

allan, l.a. as we call north florida, USA

Thank you my English and Portugese friends for pointing out America's shortcomings. Just remember when a real totalitarian states comes knocking at your door because America aligned its foreign policy to match your views, we will be there for you and your citizens like we have been twice before.

Jason, Carlsbad, USA

I hope they have enough supplies on board. Can't stop in Cuba for shopping ,because after Russia bailed out on Cuba, there is no economy. Why isn't Putin delivering aid to the hurricane ravaged Cuban people who are going without food and power?
Buddies:Russia, Iran, Venezuela, N.Korea!

Tom, Ft. Lauderdale, USA

As a Canadian "neighbour" I find it sad to see a once great democracy immolate itself in the interest of corporate greed and paranoia. The USA's self appointed role as "policeman" to the world is nothing but self serving geo- politics designed to pad the bottom line of the mil/industrial complex

Daniel, Toronto, Canada

Isn't it interesting how some of our Canadian "neighbors" would like nothing better that to see America fail.
Considering the United States & the U.S. taxpayers has served as a security zone against Communism & now terrorism, this in turn frees up Canada's treasury to be liberal socialists.

T. Perry , Atlanta, U.S.

Fact
USA is not a democracy and I really AM dissapointed with people for continuously pointing it out. The US is not the defender off reedom it purports to be. It is a totalitarian state dictated by media tycoons and oil barons. Oh wait isn't that also russia?

Paul, Birmingham, England

The US is the great paradox of the 21st century, a country that advocates itself as a beacon of democracy and freedom of speech which at the same time finances autocrats and bans channels like the english Al-jazeera from mainstream television. When debt becomes unsustainable, so will your prestige.

Seva , Silves, Portugal

i support Chavez and hope a large range of topol M will pop up all over the south American continent pointing at Washington, Texas and Detroit as well the 34 million south American and 34 millions African Americans will reclaim back their nation help of course by the American Indians the rightfully .

bremont, paris, france

Drill for oil in the U.S. and off the coast. Even oil spills (which are rare compared to oil pumped out) are less deadly to the world and environment than the likes of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Hugo Chavez who would use nuclear weapons for destruction. Buy oil from from allies... not ideological enemies

Ken, Beaverton, Oregon, USA

I lived in Russia for 2 years Great country but I see Russia as being the one mostly escalating things here by dealing directly with our enemies, i.e, Syria, Iran, Venzuela, Cuba. These are not actions of friendship. They are blatantly antagonistic. Russia has a problem with paranoia and nationalism

Daniel, Huntsville, AL, USA

Makes you want to join the Russian Navy!...the Carribean is fantastic this time of the year (and all the other times of the year too)..

Sonoran Steve, Phoenix Arizona, USA

Did someone mention the Kursk? We, the U.S. sank the Kursk when it tried to demonstrate a 300 mph torpedo for sale to the Chinese capable of sinking an aircraft carrier by piercing the support ships surrounding it and then detonating in the AC. Can't we all just get along? Not with those guys.

Dan, Kent, WA, United States of America

This to me is rather frightening. Chavez is already a problem, lets see what happens with Russian involvement. Venezuela is clearly interested in nuclear weaponry, and with a power hungry dictator like Chavez, thats scary. We rely too much on Venezuelan oil these days, and its getting dangerous now.

Peter B, San Diego, US

Venezuelanos need a new Simon Bolivar to free them from Hugo Chaves. I lived there for 2 years and have great friends there. The majority of the people hate Chaves and live in fear. As far as the Russians are concerned- Magarita is a great Port of call. ENJOY

Brent Collins, Sanford NC, USA

I wonder if the cruiser, Peter the Great, flagship of the Northern Fleet, is air conditioned. The Caribbean is about 40 degrees F warmer than the Baltic.

liam murphy, stamford, ct, usa

All of the Eurpean's who have commented negatively against the US should be ashamed. We have bailed you out before and we will bail you out next time. A little support would be appreciated. Russia and Venezuela are nothing but thugs. Freedom comes with a high price, the US pays it for everyone.

Kelly, Cape May, USA

All i have to say ismonroe Doctrine, we have the power to do as we please and Russia dose not. Foreign politics is based in hyprocrisy and the word "fair" has no room in dealing with Russia because they will only see our "fairness" as a sign of weakness to be taken advantage of.

Justin, Lubbodk, Texas

Two wrongs do not make a right! Russia can go anywhere just like anyone else but this is not the way to go about things. The rules and laws need to be re-written in a simple, stern and clear manner. The US need to accept this and as do Russia,but to me both Nations need to be knock down a few pegs

Ben Hurst, Lewes, Sussex, UK

This is great news! The US Navy has now had a chance to monitor, analyze, and record the acoustic signatures and radio emissions from Russia's latest warships and bombers. If there is military conflict, the USA can now destroy Russia's latest warships without warning, in the dark of the night.

Jonathon Moseley, Washington, DC, USA

Are you boys not tired yet of playing your war games? Russia and USA should sit down to talk about problems and not start another Cold War that could become hot very easily. The world needs food, shelter, education and equality for women (among other things), not more destruction. Stop the madness!

Mary, Dade City, USA

True democracy in the USA??????? Torture in illegal prisons condoned by the president - this is democracy??? No thanks USA, you can keep it

Laurie, Moncton, Canada

Please, Please... Bring your warship into our backyard. we promise not to sink it... The Navy would love to have someone other than drug runners to play with.

jim, Houston, USA

The Russian Navy is outclassed by the USN in almost every conceivable sense. The UK media may hype this into a crisis but I suspect the USN can and will rest easy.

The fact that the force includes a tug says it all. Chavez may as well ally his country to an anvil - it will float just the same.

Mark, Berlkhamsted,

When ti comes to Russia's new warship, let us not forget the OTHER recent new warship: The submarine KURSK. It was a fearsome, state of the art, powerful submarine, until it blew up and sank.

Let us hope that the US Coast Guard is not called upon to rescue Russian sailors nearby. BAN VODKA!

Jonathon Moseley, Washington, DC, USA

so childish!

Rezo, Tbilisi, Georgia

Frankly, this is all much ado about nothing. We have military resources far beyond our power to defend our country. I, frankly, as a taxpayer am tired of the price of such. But lets all just take a deep breath , try to get along and solve the problems that affect all of us. 1 planet, 1 people.

Jim Harvey, Minnepaolis, USA

"America is not perfect and to some very imperfect, but it's simple there will always be a big kid on the block, who do you want it to be Russia, China or the U.S.?"

Easy Answer: European Union

Martin, Kitchener, Canada

Funny how easily the world is accepting Russia's motives. Without the US, the EU wouldn't be. How easily people seem to forget the transgressions of Russia's past. I hope you like your war served 'Cold'...

Herbert, New York, USA

Russia,is nuttin but a dreamer.....

William Turner, kingman, az, usa

USA, must stop helping other countries. Do not give our money to other countries. Close half of all the USA bases in the world. Let the corruption of Latin America Countries take care of themselves. We need to use less oil. Russia still matters because of the nuclear weapons. Salvador M.

Salvador M, Irvine, USA

The world should get rid of politicians and bankers and give primary school kids a chance.

Alex mcIntosh, Oldmeldrum, Sotland

Please, we have more than them, I think we got a Warship just as cool as Peter the Great.

I hope Hugo knows what he's doing, if he goes to far, he'll really know what a superpower is.

Stewie O' Riordan, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America

The US should go back from the black sea otherwise they
will be again the loosers like in Georgia and pretty soon
in Ukreine.

No war for Ukraine . Russia loves it just the way it is (half-russian, mostly no-NATO, leaderless, totally unusefull as a base for aggressions) . Why rock the boat ?

Leonard, Sardinia,

Russia is just Mexico with some old nukes. There's more danger from lack of maintainence than anything else.

It would be amusing if the Peter the Great had to be towed back home, or if it sailed into a hurricane. I hope the Russian sailors are OK in any event.

Xixi, Alexandria, VA, US

Yes, of course, let's compare the tyranny going on in Russia right now, the theft of democracy in Venezuela with the true democracy of the United States. If you're perspective is that of a Socialist or a Marxist, well of course you see America as evil for defending freedom and democracy in the world

Robert Sciolino, Cape Coral, Florida, United States

It's an interesting opportunity for the US to have a close and investigating peek at the Russian navy.

Lex, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

How is what Russia doing different that what NATO and the US do when they run military exercises near foreign borders?

Vangel, Mississauga, Ontario

why not? no-one owns the ocean or everyone does. they can go where they like and if the Yanks don't like it, tough.

peter c, Devizes, Wessex

To put Bush in the same catagory as Hitler shows your bias against the US. Lets get the facts straight. Hitler nearly invaded all of Europe, while Bush invaded one country (which I'm against by the way.) Hugo Chavez, great leader!? The man kills anyone that speaks against him. You gotta be kiddin!

Jon, Chicago, usa

The American record in Latin America is of economic, diplomatic and military support for the most brutal dictatorships, and direct intervention and terrorism against the poor and against anyone who dare speak for them. The USA judged by its deeds rather words has much in common with Putinist Russia.

jilia, london,

I think it very unwise to underestimate Russia. The West should be very careful, it is time to calm down on both sides.

Luiz Pinto-Coelho, Basle, Switzerland

Reading all those comments made by a few individuals, sailors jumping here and there and getting court at the borders, also that russian millitary is old, its gonna brake down etc.
Are you people for real, what you dont see, is that one ship can sink the most of america's continent, just one ship!

Alex, sheffield, UK

US and Russia need to sit down behind closed doors and deal. Let us agree to a nonaligned demilitarized zone to include Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia. Let us allow for Poland as a catholic nation integration with the EU, but keep it strategically demilitarized. Ukraine, Bylrus in Russia's.

Brian S, Simsbury, USA

Look at your comments. It sounds like chattering on the backyard of the school: My father is stronger! No my father can beat yours using one hand!...
I just wonder how people from “democratic” and “developed” countries can hate on some genic level other nations (Russians in this particular case).

Alexander, Moscow, Russia

sending your best warship to the carribean is a great facade when the rest is in disrepair.

Matt, Marsh Harbor, Bahamas
-
You mean US bridges, US railways, US schools, US health care, US finances...Yes, full disrepair...

Leonard, Sardinia,

What did the US expect from Russia a bunch of flowers?
The US should go back from the black sea otherwise they
will be again the loosers like in Georgia and pretty soon
in Ukreine.

Bruno Benzi, Cesena, Italy

I think that in 100 years time Hugo Chavez will be regarded as one of South America’s greatest leader and in 500 years time, as one of the greatest leaders of the Americas. On the other hand, in 1000 years when time has blurred the lines of history, Bush will probably be categorised with Hitler and Stalin.

Laurence, Hemel Hempstead , UK

Rodolfo from Mexicali, Mexico: It seems you mis-understood the term "backyard".

"Backyard" is not derogatory in any way, it just means you are in close proximity. Near our house, just over the property line. Latin America, Canada, Mexico are all in the USA's backyard. Just as we are in yours.

Rich, Pittsburgh, USA

Good on the Russians. Its about time the Americans stop thinking they are at liberty to park their behinds in other peoples backyards (ie Kosovo, Serbia, which influenced their illegal independence), hope the intimidation sends a message out to them.

Filip, San Francisco CA,

Didn't the USA started the "gandland" diplomacy themselves? Well, they call it "strategic alliance". It sounds a bit better but it is just the same. The Russian may say, "don't you like your own games?"

L Smith, London, UK

Unless we are in a shooting war with Venezuela I could care less if the Russians send a ship over. Hell ask them to stop for a port call in US.

I would love to see Peter the Great up close. I don't think the Russias build quality ships but they sure are pretty.

Joe, Austin, TX, USA

Russia's blue water navy is still massively outclassed and they know it. In 50 years when the oil and gas revenues are dropping off and their racist, xenophobic, good-governance free country is 60% non-russian, thats is when we might have problems. Can you say civil war?

Chris, New York City , USA

"The cold war may be back, but this time let Europe pay the bill to keep the Bear caged- no more US blood and treasure for Europe." If the US hadn't've invested in protecting Western Europe from the USSR, it wouldn't have a $17 trillion market to trade with. Or did you think it acted out of charity.

Mark, London, UK

Russia is a threat and the UK and US need to work together to contain it. Putin is strutting around like a macho little boy and is not a fit leader for a major power.

Neil Murphy, Cromer,

This is what happens when we start meddling in Russia's backyard.

I love my country, the USA but not all foreign policy decisions are right. And both Democrats & Republicans are slavophobic. They use slavic nations like Czech Republic and Poland and others for their own ends.

Tim Hartford, Houston, USA

Russia is not a major power anymore. Putin is dreaming. Just because they sold some oil and have some cash now, all of a sudden Russia has a few boats again.

roger, dallas, USA

To KG2V,

U.S. and U.K. surrounded by sea. Russia is not.

Their strength is in defense of their land mass.

Believe it. That is where war is won.
The will to defend your home.
The U.S. has conducted all their wars at the expense of someone elses property and land.

Malcolm Beach, London, Canada

um, the kursk was sunk by a collision allegedly with the Memphis. oh well, still not a formidable opponent.

d, philadelphia,

Quit buying gas from cit go,bring our industries home and put america back to work. Who cares about the other countries troubles.Let them suffer. Then perhaps the rest of the world will respect the U.S. while they (the rest of the world)fall apart and beg for American help! Good Luck.

Michael Robert Quandt, Monroe, United States of America

So much anti-Americanism, and so much spite. I'm of the opinion that America pull all of the foreign aid we waste on countries that seek to impugn us. Fair-weather friends.

When Russia invades yet another satellite country, or Hugo forms his own imperialist republic, I hope America stays out of it.

Roger Cotton, San Diego, USA

Russia is a third world country with a smattering of warships, most of their fleet is in mothballs, their subs lie rusting in ports. Their people wait for hours in line to get bread,food etc.Yep, thats a country that instills fear. As previously stated, we have more than 25 nuclear subs watching

HAL, oklahoma city,

good news, the Peter the Great has a nice "kill" - bad news, it was the Kursk!!
this is the LAST vessel I would want to run war games with.

Slavko, Kiev, Ukraine

"The US response to this....should be to sail next to their warships and hang signs telling rge crew to "jump overboard and defect now".
Richard, you've no idea at all of what is Russia now. All the Russians have a freedom to go to whatever country they like, there is no need for them to "defect"

Anatoly , St.Petersburg, Russia

I welcome the Russian mission, the USA have been going around bullying everyone in the world for the last decade or two. It's about time someone gave them a taste of their own medicine. The USA has been acting like the British 'Empire,' in the 19th century, a.k.a. Disgraceful, oppressive and greedy.

Sean , Dublin, Ireland

The poor quality of Russian equipment is a factor, but the fact that they have nuclear weapons makes up for it in the end. Oh, and don't think that the Russians would never launch 'armageddon type' balistic missles; you can do a lot with tactical nukes, and the Russians have those.

steve, NY, US

It does not matter how old or rusty the ship is, IT'S GOT 20 BALLICSTIC NUKES ON IT!

John Thede, Chatham, England

This voyage is not a threat to US, of cause, but it's a demonstration that Russia is a major military power, regardless of what some US jingoists say.

We don't have enough military to keep all the world at gunpoint, unlike US, but we have pretty enough for self-defence.

Alexander, Yekaterinburg, Russia

the russian economy is growing as a direct result of US and european investment. if it wasn't for the US, they'd still be standing in line for loaves of bread. way to bite the hand that feeds you. sending your best warship to the carribean is a great facade when the rest is in disrepair.

Matt, Marsh Harbor, Bahamas

Humm, one of the worlds most formidable warships?

Let's see:
CV-63, CVN-68 through CVN-77
3 Tarawa class
7 Wasp class
9 Austin Class
2 San Antonio Class
22 Tico class
52 Burke
and the real power - 18 Ohios, 45 LA, 3 Seawolfs, 4 Virgina

England's 2 carriers... Plus her subs

KG2V, Bayside, NY, USA

It may be good for the world that Russia is flexing its muscle. American may think twice attacking other country and taking unilateral decision against world opinion?

Munna , London, UK

Its not Cold war its ganna be WW3, because during Cold war both sides were following International law to avoid direct confrontation, but since USA is not playing by Internationa law, Who's going to join their sinking ship?

Andrey, New York, NY, USA

Whether their hardware, and its location, presents a threat or not, one still has to wonder at the wisdom of C Rice's recent statement (presumeably cleared by the US State dept) that the Russians are becoming "irrelevant" - not that bear -never.

Ken Herbert, Aylesford, UK

Thanks to the inaction of both the Bush Administration and the US Congress towards a Crack Addict and Pyscho, Hugo 1st of Venezuela, we now have a strategic threat located in South America that is doing everything it can to destabilize and undermine the region's security.

Tom, Raleigh, NC, USA

The Russian army and navy are 50 years behind the American army and navy its a joke to even think they could put up much of a fight ... I'm sure Mr Bush sleeps easy at night!!!!

WOODY, bolton, england

Robster, if you stopped invading countries and supporting big oil, you may have time for 6 weeks vacations too.

Tony, Islington, London, UK

Americans to be afraid of us, and biases are still live.

Murat, Tcheboksary, Russia

"Russia doesn't matter anymore". Darwin? Australia being a key player on world power stage? How can u say Russia don't matter with among the highest econ growth and armed to the teeth. U just don't like seeing Russia get ahead. Like the Times. Imagine a title "US engages in gangland..."

Nick, Moscow, Russia

Okay, bedfellows, like Chavez and Mak-MUD-dimi-jihad are telling signs of where the rubber meets the road here. It's pretty clear in-fact. Moscow is yet not capable of handling its "freedom". It could have had a ripping economy by now, but it prefers hostility and an arms economy... Pity

Jack, NYC, US of A!

Russia like Japan has always had a one shot navy. How many ships are docked back home with parts missing so they could make one servicable boat? This bluster and blow is so typical of thugs.Instead of doing good for their people they waste money waving their arms in our face. Didn't want a cold war?

keith shelton, Watauga, USA

The cold war may be back, but this time let Europe pay the bill to keep the Bear caged- no more US blood and treasure for Europe -US wants the money for it's national health care and 6 week vacations.

robster, baltimore,

Let the Russian's flex their muscle, I hope to see pics of the Peter the Great being towed by a tug, mid-voyage.

America is not perfect and to some very imperfect, but it's simple there will always be a big kid on the block, who do you want it to be Russia, China or the U.S.?

Easy Answer: U.S

Michael, Prague, Czech Republic

No doubt, itz a gud sign of equalibrium in the word. Now world has two poles. We can never accept unipolar world and itz a natural tendency that each pole has its opposite pole. so, how USA can live along in this world??

Zishan, Delhi, India

Judging by number of comments and manifested interest, especially from readers from the USA, it is possible to say that the Russian fleet is already a few miles off the coast of America. It is not too bad. White Swans were there already. And that is a good place. Probably, the Russian ships are not so much advertised as American ones, but missiles on them are very good...

Boris, Moscow, Russia

A big point has been lost - if it wasn't for the US's position and hypocrisy, the exercises would be going on with the US, not Venezuela. Anyone recall that exercises with the US we're canceled? Basically, at this point, we're doing this to ourselves, and will sadly reap it someday. I hope not.

Jai, Racine, Wisconsin, USA

It is time we put this horrible little man back in his box. Tell the Russians to foxtrot Oscar. The Briitish should bolster its defenses and also not send up aircraft when the Russians fly over the UK.

Instead let the aircraft move closer enter British airspace and then shoot them down.

Peter, chelmsford, england

Perhaps the US is receiving some of its own medicine? The US has violated NATO treaties since Yeltsin days, laying down ballistic missiles along Russian borders. Cold War is back!

Jim Willie CB, San Jose, Costa Rica

Who is going to rescue it when it shoots itself, like the Kursk?

Frankly, for all the huffing & puffing, Russia is 3rd division.

Mike, Sydney,

Putin just can't resist rattling his sabre - even if it is an antique. A blatant tit-for-tat after the US sent relief ships into the Black Sea - and Chavez is naive enough to get in bed with it. About as threatening to US naval power as a dolphin clutching a pointy stick in it's flippers.

Pete R, Stoke-on-Trent, UK

I wonder if they will be able to complete this long cruise and return to Russia without breaking down. This "Russian" fleet is just a collection of Soviet relics suffering from nearly 20 years of neglect, Pray for the safety of those Russian sailors. We don't need another Kursk in the Carribean.

Roger, Nashville, US

Russian naval history is a brief as that of South and Central America. Look under the sea for legacy of futile attempts to challenge American dominance. As for a resurgent Latin America.... all that is seen is the result of American purchase of nations. We need not conquer, we already bought them

Joseph Keith, Tucson, USA

I predict that within a month of their arrival in Venezuela the first bunch of Russian sailors who jumped ship will be caught at the Mexican border after bolting towards a better life in the US. They'll be following the Venezuelans already bailing out of the disaster Chavez has turned it into.

Bob, NY, USA

We sent ships to Russia's backyard and they send theirs to ours. Does it really matter? We got subs off their coast at all times and they have them off ours. As long as we don't cost any lives from itchy trigger fingers and stupid governments (which we ALL seem to have). We can go on living.

Stone, Trinity, North Carolina, USA

People are loosing jobs, companies are sinking. The US economy is about to pop up like a huge bubble.

I do not care about Russians. They can stop at Mobile, AL on their way to Venezuela. I would rather kick out all these old guys out of Washington. Obama should be next president. US will change.

vlad, Huntsville, Alabama

If people in the USA want Hugo Chavez to hear their voice of dissent, our real strength isn't our warship or our congress but organized willingness to stop supporting them economically. Simply stop buying your gas at CitGo... it's really that easy.

William, Millbrae, USA

Great story---5 stars

nick, carlbad, USA

"I bet the city of Detroit would win a war against those farmers..."

Uh, we're an oil country, not much farming going on here, and I bet we can take Detroit. Not L.A., for sure, but Detroit...

"Chavez is in the fast lane to self-destruction".

That's what we're hoping for!

Daniel Narváez, Caracas, Venezuela

I often wonder why it is that when the USA sends ships into Russian waters or other foriegn waters that the news headline is all upbeat and RAH RAH RAH , but if Russia or another foriegn country send ships within a thousand miles of the USA the headlines warn of doom and disaster? USA that scared?

bob graham, highlands ranch/colorado, USA

WRT Chandra, the difference is the US can but it may and does sail all the world. "Can" as in having the capability, "may" in being allowed to, and does all the time. Russia "can't",never mastered the ability to replenish at sea, IIRC the Indians can and do. Russian ships break, too. Not worried

John , Brea, CA, USA

Chavez acts like a bully. Colombia can whip Chavez with its own military and has defeated Chavez allies FARC terrorists. Let the Russians come, extend their forces across the ocean and their ships are easy targets. Castro es muerte.

Jose , Texas , USA

Russia used to give its client states lessons in economics. Will they be instructing Raul Castro in how to establish a market economy? I wonder how Russia's economic system sits with Venezuela's idea of a socialist Bolivarian revolution?

Anti-americanism is not enough.

TMLutas, Munster, IN, US

I am a south american, and to be honest we a sick of stomach to see USA criating internal conflict in our hemisphere. They always try to divide ourselves to mold hos fake and failed democratic system. It will be nice to have more countries come together with the Russians. We already have 3 countries

Neu, HUNTINGTON BCHcalifornia,

"Gandland diplomacy"?

Is that what we are doing that when we send a warship abroad?

How can we question the other side responding likewise?

As for backyards, the Americas are only 30 miles from Russia (as even Gov Palin knows). How far is Iraq from the US/UK?

Keith S, Winnipeg, Canada

I love America, have fought for it, and would again; but it's arrogant to think we're the only ones who have a right to global success. However, Russia, Venezuela, Iran, and North Korea are not looking for economic success; they are expansionistic. It's not wise to trade freedom for repression.

D. Archibald, Arizona, USA

On August 14, 2000 the 'Peter the Great' sunk the newest Russian sub, the Kursk, and its crew, in war games. It can't differentiate friend from foe.

It may be "formidable" against the Venezuelan navy, but the Russians have nothing to threaten late model US Navy warships, and they know it.

Peter K, Boston, USA

South America as USA backyard is disputed by the fact that last USA stronghold , the OAS, Organization of American States, during the last few yeras USA has not been able to arm twist the rest of the continent.
There is a new resugency in South America and it is endogenous!

luciano, Caracas, venezuela

Russia speaks loudly but we carry the big stick and much to their chagrin will insure a McCain/Palin victory! Putin will lose...

Eric , Scottsdale, UNITED STATES

Venezuela`s navy has made joint exercieses in the caribbean waters in the last year with Netherland and France among others.
Isnt Venezuela sovereign enough to conduct exercises with our friend country Russia?

luciano, Caracas, venezuela

Seems to me that this is not 'tit for tat' so much as democracy vs. communism (Russia) and tyranny (Venezuela). The USA supporting westernization and reform in Georgia and Ukrain is not the moral equivalent of proping up the repressive regimes like Cuba and Venezuela--these leaders are only thugs.

Nick, Los Angeles, USA

"You leave Georgia and Ukraine to us and we won’t go into the Caribbean, OK?”

But you will. You know you will. No matter what the U.S. does, you will.

Jim P, Sacramento, California

Anyone with a working knowledge of Russian naval capabilities knows that ship will break down numerous times on its voyage and cannot sustain operations like its American counterparts. Let them sail their 1950's weapons systems. I hope Greenpeace is tracking their pollutions and radioactivity.

LT Eric Meyers, USN, Norfolk, VA,

John from Phoenix is wrong, warships often get underway with partial weapons loadouts.

LT Eric Meyers, USN, Norfolk, VA,

"Peter the Great is armed with 20 nuclear cruise missiles and is one of the world?s most formidable warships."

..and we're supposed to scared of that because?

JeffW, Fernandina, USA

I hope the United States dares to say something to Russia.
If they start a war, they will never win it.
Hah!

Oleg Aramyelyev, San Antonio, United States

I'm sorry all I see is a few Russian Warships bothering to make news in Hugo Chavez's Venezuela. Mind you both Russian and Venezuelan fortunes ride upon OUR reckless use of Oil.

Conserve oil/gas & rapidly & meaningfully move towards alternatives , and both of these national irritants collapse.

Mark T, Princeton, NJ, USA

Nonsense caption. Where did 'gangland' come from?

Isn't the American Empire the gangland diplomat -after having taken the title from the British Empire>

Get real.

JOHN ISH ISHMAEL, TORONTO, CANADA

This is all hot air, Russia isn't equipped to fight a war, China may be but they aren't that stupid, Venezuela hahahah don't make me laugh I bet the city of Detroit would win a war against those farmers...

Mike, Wisconsin, US

Sometimes the squeaky wheel gets replaced.

Jason Bourne, Louisville, USA

Why is this news? If US navy battle groups can roam the 7 seas, 'show of force' whenever and wherever they wish, Russia too can do same. I hope Russia will do this more often.

Chandra, Seremban, Malaysia

Sauce for the gander-- I mean, we sent warships into their backyard, why not the opposite? In any case it will give us a chance to examine their biggest toy up close and personal-like. Maybe we'll get some good capabilities intel from it. See, you can always make something of something!

Matt, Rochester NY, USA

After centuries of attempts to build a first-rate Navy, Russia still has few warm water ports, an aging fleet, and a leader (Putin) with delusions of grandeur. And, worse, they have no aircraft carriers to project seapower. In short, the Russian fleet is in effect a floating Potemkin Village.

Mark, Manchester,

Daphne illustrates why Europe relies so heavily on American military power to defend it from the big bad Russians. HEY UK, the bad guys don't want to "discuss the issues!" The difference between Daphne and the bad guys is, the bad guys want to win!

Adam, Baghdad, Iraq

Is this in violation of the Monroe Doctrine??

Henry, macomb, usa

The West really could be called Dumb and dumber.
Wars are hotting up just as Jesus said in Luke chapter 21 and the West sleeps.
China builds for outward march, Russia is getting ready...and the idiotic West isnt ready for sudden change.
Look at OZ. Not a gun in the cupboard for her citizens.

G Gibson, Sydney, Australia

Russia simply does not matter any more.

Trep, Darwin,

All military ships carry their complete complement of weapons including nuclear when ever they at see. Rest assured the Peter The Great does have nuclear weapons onboard.

John, Phoenix AZ,

Negotiations without willingness to utilize force are seen as a weakness of democracies for nations like Russia to take advantage of. We cannot afford to abandoned young democracies like Georgia and Ukraine for fear of Russia's nuclear weapons or a new cold war. Chamberlain is proof of this failure

MAJ Keating, Fort Leavenworth, KS, USA

President Chavez can tall everything he want. But in a reality our Navies is not suppose to confront sombody on those route. They goes in a Caribbean Sea onley to make a robust ties of friendship and comradship with those Venezuelan colleagues.
America just happen to be close enough.

Peter, Vladivostok, Russia

While the Peter the Great has the capability to sail with nuclear cruise missiles, I seriously doubt that it got underway with them for it's cruise to this side of the Atlantic.

Michael, Hays, Ks, USA

Chavez is in the fast lane to self-destruction.

Hugh, Washington, DC, USA

Let's see. Two wars . One in Iraq and One in Afganistan. Lot's of middle east tensions. Economic meltdown in the United States , perhaps the world? Now we want to get the cold war hot again? I fear our great country is taking on way too much.

Tom Jones, East Gabrew , NJ , USA

I agree with Rodolfo, it isn't our backyard. Let Chavez and Putin strut like two roosters. They are only doing it to distract their countryman from the mess they have made.

James , Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan

We should tell the Russians to please....come and go at will. Then watch as they embarass themselves.....towing their junk all over the Carribean!

Todd, Brooksville, USA

I hope that a long and deep military investment will do for the Russian economy what it has done for ours.

Dean, Atlanta, GA, USA

Latin America is not the backyard of anybody!.

Rodolfo, Mexicali, Mexico

That Russian warship, please, we got some as cool or as better as Peter the Great.

Stewie O' Riordan, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America

America Must stop its adventure in Russia's backyard.
And Russia will stop it's adventure in America's backyard.
This is not Iraq, or Iran who don't have Nuclear bombs.
But American propaganda says it does. This one really has Nuclear Bombs. I think its time to sit and discuss issues.

Daphne Kenward, Cambridge, UK

The US response to this Russian moves should be to sail next to their warships and hang up signs telling the crew to "jump overboard and defect now; before its too late". Or "to defect, follow me. You can sell your ship on ebay". This will totally embarass the Russians and they will go home.

Richard Brook, Austin, USA