We’ve consistently kicked Russia while they were down over the last two decades… making the mistake of treating them like a defeated enemy. The Clinton administration viewed post-Soviet Russia as a country that could be forced to follow US policies and even learn to like them. But, the truth is Russia wasn’t defeated, rather they went through a transformation. As the region continues to gain power and prestige back, with a stabilizing economy, it is realized by many that we should have been more positively involved with their recovery. Instead it was a very low priority for the US to maintain Russia as a strategic partner, therefore it is now possible for them to join the ranks of US adversaries.
It’s not too late, there is a chance to cease deterioration of the relationship. Though it would require the US to recognize that it cannot enjoy full leverage over Russia and should not force it’s will on Moscow like we did in the 90’s.
The two countries disagree about way too much, from Russia not supporting the US invasion of Iraq, to recent Russian sales of arms to Iran, to the shunned upon US arms transfers to Georgia to name a few…. These arguments don’t make us enemies, keep in mind… Russia doesn’t support al Qaeda and no longer bears the goal of world domination. Putin and his advisers accept the US as the most powerful nation on Earth and agree that provoking it makes little sense. But, they are no longer ready to change their behavior to meet the wishes of the US, especially at the expense of their own interests.
We need to rid the sense that the US can take other countries for granted, and without consequence. It would be best if we continue to work together with Russia on joint interests, while maintaining a firm tone… letting them know that we expect Moscow to uncritically support Washington against Iran and Islamist terrorists. Many believe that proliferation of arms and counterterrorism should be the defining issues in the US - Russian relationship.
After the last few years, we should take advantage of any opportunities presented to us to regain the confidence of our allies.