[Otis Mukinfus]

I wouldn't be quick to tick off the Russians. In the long run, they might be our best friend in the world. A) They still got lotsa nukes. B)By the year 2100 they may be the last major, ahem, non-minority majority state left on the planet.

And C) They have the worlds second largest oil reserve.

[section9]

Putin knows that Saddam is a pain in the ass and a loose cannon. A nuclear Saddam is a danger to Russian interests in the region as well. He just wants to get in on the ground floor so he can be at the Peace Conference with the Turks, the Israelis, and the EU.

Besides, he's sitting on serious oil wealth. No one can tell Russia what to do. Least of all the U.S..

Yes, we're starting to lay the groundwork for an assault on Iraq. The Arabs have taken the measure of Bush the Younger and his circle of advisors and have found them impressive and resolute. Notice the lack of Jihadist upheaval on the Arab Street.

Saddam knows this as well. Bush will strike while the iron is hot, but only after having put his ducks in a row.

Watch for the U.S. to come to an understanding with Iran in the near future.

Be Seeing You,

Chris

[aristeides]

I'm sure the Russians can be persuaded to let us go after Saddam. It's just a matter of providing sufficient incentive to them.