[Greetings_Puny_Humans]

Now Russia is increasingly looking East, toward an uneasy alliance with an illiberal and much more powerful China, and—in recognition of the country’s increasingly Muslim makeup—with nations such as Turkey and Iran. But even more pronounced is a sentiment that Russia, so unique in its vastness, must remain a world unto itself, a country that should expect kinship from no one.

I don't understand these takes. I imagine it can only come from people who have not been paying attention. There is nothing new whatsoever with Russia's alliance with Iran and China. Russia has been setting the stage for a nuclear Iran for a very long time. The same for North Korea.

Although the author is full of shit with reference to Turkey. Turkey is the only country to shoot down a Russian jet for crossing into its airspace.

[dfwgator]

Turkey wants Russia out of the way so it can rebuild the Ottoman Empire.