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Putin will make it clear again that Russian domestic politics is off limits to Washington. By the time Obama arrives for his scheduled visit to Moscow, Snowden will have left the airport, and be silent.
The Sochi Olympics are special in many ways. First, the North Caucasus where they are to be held is still restless. Second, Sochi lies close to Abkhazia, which broke away from Georgia at the time of the Soviet collapse, and whose independence Moscow recognized after the brief war against Tbilisi almost five years ago. Third, Sochi is the favorite residence of President Putin.
In the situation where no country can be an island, the best way forward for the democrats is to organize the more modern sections of the elites; to reach out to the broader publics on the issues that matter to the ordinary citizens; and to develop a set of credible policy alternatives—so that when the time comes, they can be ready.
EU-Russia relations have entered a new phase. That will have important consequences for Europe’s Eastern neighbors, which will need to make a choice between east and west.
Edward Snowden’s stay in Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport has contributed to the already charged atmosphere of U.S.-Russia relations.
For a long time, the rise of communism across Eurasia had stimulated democratic achievements and economic performance in the non-communist nations. Successful authoritarians can play a similar role now—if Eurasia’s democracies are able and willing to take up the challenge.
Turkey’s recent troubles suggest it is on the upward curve not only economically, but politically as well. Egypt is spinning out of control and is becoming ungovernable.
Capitalizing on the good weather, Russia hands from around the world come to pay their visits and hear “what Russia thinks.” The questions they are asking could be sometimes more interesting that the answers they get.
Russia has the potential to play a critical role as a global mediator, moderating international tension and fostering global understanding. Unfortunately, as things stand today, this potential remains unrealized.
If the EU’s ambition were to be a mere trading bloc, it should be able to accommodate Turkey. If the Union, however, also aspires to be a political player, the rising power Turkey will hardly fit. The EU’s strategy must ensure that former Ottoman possessions in the Balkans eventually become part of Europe. As to Turkey, it should be turned into Europe’s close partner.
