Reply #5: Exactly ... well played Putin [View All]

[plasticsundance]

NNN0LHI,

Putin is playing an excellent chess game right now in the ME. Shipments of nuclear material are scheduled to arrive from Russia to Iran by the end of June, perhaps sooner. He's covering his position right now by playing a dual role of opening trade and being concerned about global geopolitical matters. The US used to do the same. The Bush Administration tries faking everyone that they can do this, but they've exposed themselves as the gang that can't shoot straight on the diplomatic stage, thus the nomination of Bolton, alias the "nuclear option," to borrow a phrase from the Repugs.

Putin has just finished meeting with the Israeli government, and the discussion had disputes, but overall, it seemed friendly in tone. At least, from the reports I've heard.

Putin has also defended his sale of weapons to Syria.

Putin is placing himself in a position for Russia to play a larger role in the ME. He is upstaging the inane unilateral approach of the Bush Administration, because Putin knows that the neocons are an albatross around Bush's neck. He's going to take advantage of the situation to demonstrate Russia is the one with the cool hand for negotiations.

Russia is gaining influence in trade, especially exporting energy needs, and Russia is seeking a greater voice of faith among the international community.

Bush needs to take lessons from Putin.