Russia joins the club

President Bush's soul-gazing affection for Russian President Vladimir Putin is enough to make a Cold War spook blush. When Mr. Bush courted Mr. Putin with barbecued steak a la Crawford, Texas, the friendship was the envy of European leaders, who seemed chastened that Mr. Bush's position on missile defense didn't lead to brinkmanship. Mr. Bush has now put America's critical defense alliance on the table for Mr. Putin.

Also, Mr. Bush made only an oblique reference to Russia's human-rights abuses in Chechnya during his European tour, by calling on Mr. Putin to respect the legitimate rights of minorities

I think President Bush and Dr Rice have a reasonable perspective on the 'minority' in question here. The Chechyan muslims beg for sympathy from the world, while at the same time trying to win by terrorist activity. As soon as they get power every other citizen's rights are gone.

Mr. Bush made only an oblique reference to Russia's human-rights abuses in Chechnya during his European tour, by calling on Mr. Putin to respect the legitimate rights of minorities. Sadly, the Kremlin's repression of the freedom of the press and bullying of Eastern European states were deemed unworthy of a mention. More worrisome is Mr. Bush's willingness to put America's relationship with Russia above European alliances, which rallied behind America in Afghanistan. Europe remains America's natural ally, sharing political, strategic and cultural affinities. For all its military shortcomings, Europe can still provide critical military aid when that need arises

Lets review these statements: first of all, why was it again that so many Chechins died shooting at Americans in Afghanistan? Yup, thought so....the same ones that blew up apartment buildings, underpasses and Victory Day parades. Any further questions?

As for countries to come to America's aid. Russia was first, England second and Isreal third...NATO had to be cudgled along and reminded of Paragraph 5. Since it's ambigeous, most decided that the best aid they could send was good wishes, while critizing Americans for everything. Some friends NATO is.

As for countries to come to America's aid. Russia was first, England second and Isreal third...NATO had to be cudgled along and reminded of Paragraph 5.

Yes, because Russia had an ulterior motive, sorting out al Qaeda and the Taliban is very important for its national security. As for England offering its helping second, well, all President Bush had to do was call Tony Blair and he would have immediately been offered help. The fact is that in these times, all a US president has to do is whistle and a British prime minister will offer help.

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.