There are major concerns regarding Iran's position in the Middle East. Their threats aimed toward Israel is no joking matter besides the fact that the area has been in turmoil for centuries. Even though Russia may not approve on how we handle the situation, we must do what it takes to prevent any of these threats from being carried out. It's called maintaining stability in the region, and it's been a goal of our nation for quite some time now. Even though it sounds like a bunch of lip service on the part of Rice, her words go beyond what you and I can fathom. There seems to be a method to the madness.

This seems like a great argument in favor of the missile defense shield. It also solidifies how the US views the Iranian threat. Why is Russia feeling intimidated? Because a US shield would neutralize the playing field and it is designed to provide a sense of security for many people that like in the surrounding areas. Deterring any hostile missile launches in the region is a big plus, so too bad Russia, we will do what is necessary...like it or not.

My opinion is that Rice seems to be posturing in a manner that can possibly give a reason to start up the Cold War again, not that it is very probable.

Quote:

Rice: Russia should back off regional threats Russia should back off its threats and intimidation of countries once under the Soviet clamp, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Wednesday as Cold War-tinged rhetoric escalated between Russia and the United States. Rice all but dared Moscow to critique her visit to this former Soviet republic locked in a shoving match with Russia that has seen Russia close its border with Georgia and impose trade and other restrictions. "I'm going to visit a friend and I don't expect much comment about the United States going to visit a friend," Rice said with an edge in her voice. Rice dined privately with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, a Russian nemesis, a day after Russia warned that it might resort to military means to counter a U.S. plan to base anti-missile defenses in the Czech Republic. Rice called the Russian response sad but predictable. The system would place radar interceptors in the Czech Republic, a former Soviet satellite, and missiles in Poland. Russia says that's uncomfortably close, no matter the U.S. assurances that the planned shield is a hedge against Iran. Russia says the shield is unnecessary. Iran test-fired nine long- and medium-range missiles on Wednesday during war games that officials say are in response to U.S. and Israeli threats, state television reported. Rice: Russia should back off regional threats - Yahoo! News

Reagan ignored their concerns as well. Some lead, others follow.

I think its in everybody's best interest to ignore Russian concerns.

__________________
"...Follow the crystal star to the pyre of the flame; there exists the dwelling of the spreading fire. The heart of this life rests upon the fate of that place, and what begins there sends a contagion to the rest of the universe.
As long as the fire burns we shall never be free..." (The Shadows of Yavara, Final Reclamation)

I can only sit back and laugh each time the idiot American regime piss off Russia. Every insult and political manouvre will be remembered in Moscow. The balance of power is swinging and not in Washingtons favour.

__________________
Viva Fidel

"If there ever was in the history of humanity an enemy who was truly universal, an enemy whose acts and moves trouble the entire world, threaten the entire world, attack the entire world in any way or another, that real and really universal enemy is precisely Yankee imperialism"

"North Americans don't understand... that our country is not just Cuba; our country is also humanity"

The US has repeatedly stated that the missile defence shield is strictly defensive, with no offensive missiles.
Russia is trying to rebuild its image in the world as a superpower. The only way it can do this is by opposing the US whenever it can. Russia believes its status will be elevated in doing so.

The dream of having a mother Russia is long gone. To hell with what they think.

As a general rule, I do not favor State Department types; and even Ms. Rice, who is very intelligent and personable, is usually in conflict-avoidance mode, in keeping with the job description. But in this case, she has nailed it. Kudos to her!

Well said.