Suddenly within the past month, it feels like we’re returning to the Cold War. It’s obvious that the Russians are quite annoyed by the attempts of the U.S. deploying a missile shield in Eastern Europe — the former backyard of the Russians.
The Czech Republic, a former Cold War ally of Russia, signed an agreement to deploy U.S. radar stations south of Prague. These radar installations are to be incorporated in the future with interceptor missile systems based in Poland — another former Cold War ally of Russia. The deployment of a U.S. missile shield in Eastern Europe is striking the nerve of Russia. And my guess, it’s ticking Putin off!
Let’s not forget that Putin was the former head of the KGB, and though he’s supposedly not running the “show” — it’s quite obvious he’s still the major player in Russia. So what’s the Russian response to these moves by the United States?
On June 26th, the Washington Times reported that Russian bombers are increasing their provocative bomber flights near the Alaskan coastline designed to rattle U.S. Air Defense. Let’s not forget last year, the Russians buzzed an aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Nimitz, in the Pacific.
The Washington Post reported yesterday, “Russian bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons could be deployed to Cuba in response to U.S. plans to install a missile defense system in Eastern Europe.” - Source: Washington Post
Hugo Chavez, the Venezuelan leader, after pushing Exxon-Mobil out of Venezuela in February, signed oil agreements with Russia’s oil companies: Gazprom, Lukoil and TNK-BP. In addition to these agreements, he signed agreements allowing the Venezuelans to purchase $2 billion in weapons from the Russians.
After their toes were stepped on in the Eastern hemisphere, they’re returning the favor in the Western hemisphere as the saber rattles in Alaska, Cuba, and Venezuela. Just when you thought the Russian bear was dead a few years ago — today we see it sharpening its claws!
Until next time…
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