Tuesday, August 26, 2008

DEBKAfile - Russian Mediterranean warships placed under Black Sea Fleet command

DEBKAfile - Russian Mediterranean warships placed under Black Sea Fleet command: "Moscow’s announcement Monday that Russian forces would search cargoes transiting Poti underscored its determination to retain its grip on the strategic Black Sea port."

Russia is Dangerous but Weak - WSJ.com

Global View - WSJ.com: "For much of its history, Russia has been a weak state masquerading as a strong one -- a psychological profile in insecurity. That's why it has generally sought its advantage internationally by acting as an opportunistic spoiler, as it now does over Iran, rather than as a constructive partner seeking to magnify its influence (à la Britain) or as a rising power patiently asserting its place (à la China)."