Marriage of Convenience?

What steps must the U.S. take to improve relations with Russia

Transcript:

THIS DEFCON-3 BY KT AND I’M KT MCFARLAND

The U-S and RUSSIA? –  we’re flirting with each now and could start dating any minute – are we headed for a MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE? Talk about hitting the reset button!

The Matchmaker -Former Secretary of state Henry Kissinger– One of the most brilliant  Diplomats in American History — Quietly visited Moscow last year to explore a new strategic partnership.

The Influential Bipartisan Foreign Policy Group –Partnership for a secure America– issued a report outlining steps the U.S and Russia can take to improve relations. In the audience? Russian Embassy Officers and a senior Government Official from Moscow.

To show good faith, Russia has Made gestures… and we’ve reciprocated.  President Obama has sent a letter to Medvedev hinting we  are open to deal.

Okay, so Whats in it for us?

First, Iran.  Without Russian cooperation, Iran won’t have nuclear weapons – at least not anytime soon. If we persuade the Russians to switch sides and partner with us together we can  contain Iran’s Nuclear Program… Their Support For terriost… and their Reginal Ambitions.

Second, Israel. Unless we prevent the Mullahs having their fingers on the nuclear trigger, Israel is likely to attack Iran, setting off a cascade of events that would be bad for us, and threaten the world’s oil supply.

Third, Afghanistan. Just as were increasing our forces there… the Taliban have all but sealed the U.S and Nato supple lines from Pakidtan. With Russian help we can bring in supplies from the Stans or Russia In time for the Afghanistan  Surge planned for this spring.

But What’s in it for Russia?  A lot.  First, they don’t want George Bush’s proposed Missile shield on their border in territory they used to own. It’s not just a security issue, it’s a major slap in the face.

Second, their economy is on its’ knees.Russia has be hit with a triple Wammy — Falling oil prices… The global Recession…. and reduced foreign investments.

For the last Decade, Russia has used Oil  and Gas exports to regain its place as a world superpower. Now, Just as it is poised to reclaim that mantle, Russia sees it slipping away. They need our economic cooperation and crave our respect.

A lot of happy marriages have started out with a lot less.

THAT’S DEFCON-3 BY KT AND I’M KT MCFARLANd