[Marine_Uncle]

Putin is nothing more then a KGB colonel. He really does not want democracy in Russia. He and his cronies have been playing the US like a fiddle. He pretends for the sake of foreign investments and the hopes Russian oil and gas will ultimately be able to revive the country, and become a super energy producing center. Then they go back to their dictorial ways, with a rebuilt military to attempt to obtain parity with the US.

[JasonC]

Correct assessment of their desires. But it is hopeless. Every day their women are more alone, unconsolable, and less fertile; every day their men are deeper, meaner drunks. Cynicism is cultural suicide. Stupid men seek power from it, but all it has ever given them in return is ashes.