Month: September 2009

September 25, 2009

The “Russia First” Syndrome

Adrian Blomfied at the Independent hits the nail right on the head in explaining how Vladimir Putin and Gazprom have recruited such expensive and powerful cheerleaders in key Western countries – the process Bob often calls disaggregation and...
September 25, 2009

Russia Losing a Generation to Heroin

Megan K. Stack has a very sad report in the Los Angeles Times today on the proliferation of heroin use in Russia, which has been dramatically increased from the booming narcotics industry coming out of Afghanistan – another thorn in the U.S....
September 25, 2009

Sex, Lies, and a Fake Videotape?

This story about a kompromat sex tape made of a U.S. diplomat in Russia is spreading like wildfire across the internets.  Kyle Hatcher, a relatively young diplomat posted to the U.S. Embassy to liaise with religious groups in Russia, was alle...
September 25, 2009

Energy Blast – September 25, 2009

Vladimir Putin told a meeting of international oil company heads that he is seeking ‘stable and long-term’ cooperation for gas extraction in the Yamal peninsula, which the country hopes could lead to a 25% share of the world’s LN...
September 25, 2009

Today in Russian Business – September 25, 2009

The Moscow Times suggests that Russia will be consigned to the sidelines in today’s  G20 meeting to discuss creating a global financial architecture, as, for all of its riches, the country lags behind in industrial development.  Wi...
September 25, 2009

RA’s Daily Russian News Blast – September 25, 2009

TODAY: Medvedev hints at a job swap but remains vague on 2012 election; suggests Iran sanctions as last resort; Saakashvili hopes to see Abkhazia return; new Moldova leadership to encourage Russia to remove soldiers from Transdnestr; historic mome...
September 24, 2009

“Do Not Awaken the Partisans of Belarus, Mr. Medvedev”

The following is an exclusive translation from Lenta.ru of an article which takes a look at some elements of the opposition in Belarus which is furious over the introduction of Russian troops into the country for training exercises.  Some pro...
September 24, 2009

Kadyrov vs. the CIA

Right when Dmitry Medvedev probably feels like he is riding high, earning the first major concession from the United States toward Russia in more than a decade with the withdrawal of the missile plan, acting the role of a democrat president at the...
September 24, 2009

Zelaya Has Gone Batshit Crazy

I’ve written in various places about the coup in Honduras, and stated in radio interviews that I support Washington’s stance and the efforts of Oscar Arias to bring resolution to the conflict and restore constitutional normality. ...