Free Republic

Russian President Vladimir Putin came out swinging at the U.S. on Friday in an aggressive speech as he announced the annexation of four Ukrainian regions. In a message that was already expected to be hostile, Putin further escalated threats against Ukraine and the West by saying the U.S. set a "precedent" of nuclear warfare by hitting Japan with atomic bombs during World War II. Fears have mounted since last week when Putin said he was "not bluffing" after he warned that Moscow would use "all weapons systems available" to defend Russian territory.

For the second straight week, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R) holds a fourteen percentage point lead in the race for the Republican Presidential nomination. Giuliani attracts support from 33% of Likely Primary Voters while Arizona Senator John McCain is supported by 19%. A week ago, it was Giuliani 32% McCain 18%. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R) picked up a few points this week and now is favored by 13%. Trailing Gingrich is former Massachusetts Mitt Romney (R) at 9%. Senators Sam Brownback (R) and Chuck Hagel (R) each earn 3% support. It is not clear that...