Here are prophetic words written by former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates written in 2013 on the role of Russia. They are taken from an electronic copy of his latest book entitled duty. Had Putin allowed Medvedev to run for reelection as president in 2012, the prospects for the Russian people and for the U.S-Russian relationship would be far brighter. I felt that Medvedev understood Russias deep internal problems--economic, demographic, and political, as well as the absence of the rule of law, among others--and had realistic ideas about how to deal with them, including the need to more closely align Russia with the West and to attract foreign investment. However, Putins lust for power led him to shoulder Medvedev aside and reclaim the presidency. I believe Putin is a man of Russias past, haunted by lost empire, lost glory, and lost power. Putin potentially can serve as president until 2024. As long as he remains in that office, I believe Russias internal problems will not be addressed. Russias neighbors will continue to be subject to bullying from Moscow, and while the tensions and threats of the Cold War period will not return, opportunities for Russian cooperation with the United States and Europe will be limited. Its a pity. Russia is a great country too long burdened and held back by autocrats.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Mar 2014 13:40:30 +0000