News Analysis: Russia, Iraq find common ground as old ties revived

Hsin-hua News Agency ^ | 2012-10-11 22:54:18 | Igor Serebryne, Zheng Haoning

[Olog-hai]

Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki wrapped up his visit here Wednesday, with both countries finding a common purpose in rebuilding their relationship.

His visit was significant to both Russia, a country seeking to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, and Iraq, which is eager to cast off its image as a U.S. puppet.

Maliki met Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and discussed a range of issues, including energy and military technology cooperation.

A series of bilateral military contracts worth 4.2 billion U.S. dollars were also unveiled during his visit. …

[ETL]

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Russia's Medvedev hails "comrade" Obama

Associated Foreign Press (AFP) ^ | April 2, 2009 | Anna Smolchenko

"Russia's Dmitry Medvedev hailed Barack Obama as "my new comrade" Thursday after their first face-to-face talks"

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gEo4B1heuBvO6KK7EiBHKigO1UrA

April 1, 2009:
"Obama, Medvedev pledge new era of relations":
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/specialreport/news/419496_88/1/.html

[ETL]

From the Washington Times...

"Obama was talking with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev when neither of them realized that their conversation was being picked up by microphones. Here is what they said:

Obama: “On all these issues, but particularly missile defense, this, this can be solved, but it’s important for him to give me space.”

Medvedev: “Yeah, I understand. I understand your message about space. Space for you ...”

Obama: “This is my last election. After my election, I have more flexibility.”

Medvedev: “I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir.”

“This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.” That statement tells us much about the president’s mindset.

The specific mention of missile defense is worrisome enough. Mr. Obama has retreated from the missile defense plan that was negotiated with European allies during the George W. Bush administration. Apparently, he is signaling Moscow that he intends to retreat further. The clear implication from the president’s comments is that he cannot tell the American people before the election what he plans to do after the election.

In addition, there is the phrase “on all these issues,” implying more is at stake than just missile defense.”

Article: Obama plans double cross on missile defense
When it comes to keeping America safe, we shouldn’t be too flexible:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/mar/29/obama-plans-double-cross-on-missile-defense/print/

[BlackVeil]

Iraq is a key aspect of the Syria crisis, and Russia is ever more motivated to expand its influence. Turkey’s actions have been a very direct challenge.