Putin and Bush defuse the missile dispute

"Putin's strategy was skilfully planned," comments Eric Gujer in his preliminary assessment of the G8 summit in Heiligendamm. "After weeks of threats during which Putin conjured up images of a Russia under threat from the American system and warned of a new Cold War, Moscow is now suggesting that it's willing to talk. In Europe, and more specifically in Germany, many interpret this as a sign that Russia is backing down and urge Washington to meet Moscow halfway. But for America, Putin's proposal is probably less attractive... The defence technology, which is still in development, is far too advanced for the Americans to be happy about sharing it with Russia. Putin's Azerbaijan alternative not only means joint operations, it would also mean they would take place within Russia's sphere of influence. This would practically give Moscow free access to the system."

» to the homepage (external link, Neue Zürcher Zeitung)
More from the press review on the subject » International Relations, » Security Policy / Crises / War, » Russia, » Europe, » U.S., » Global
All available articles from » Eric Gujer

» To the complete press review of Friday, June 8, 2007