NYT - Former Russian Leader Mikhail Gorbachev On President Obama's "Reset"

[TomCADem]

I know this may not be the issue de jour at the moment, but I find it very interesting to see a knowledgeable Russian perspective on President Obama's visit to Russia, and relations between Russia and the U.S.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/18/opinion/18iht-edgorbachev.html?_r=1

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In the run-up to the visit, many American pundits asserted that relations with Russia were far from the U.S. administration’s list of top priorities. Here in Moscow, some have gone so far as to say that a “cold war is good for Russia.” Against such a backdrop, the fact itself that the visit took place may be regarded as a success.

It would of course be an illusion to expect major results so soon after the long years of stalled relations. Yet it would be a mistake to underestimate what was accomplished both at the preparatory stages and during the visit. These first steps are meaningful.

They include agreement on a framework for a future legally binding treaty on reducing strategic offensive arms. In this context, reaffirmation of the interrelationship between these weapons and missile defense was a notable achievement. By accepting it, the Obama administration sent an important signal.

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[Captain Hilts]

1. Thanks for posting this piece by Moscow Mike on 'Bam. I almost missed it. Thanks. nt

[Rosa Luxemburg]

2. I think Obama's Russian trip was VERY important!

yet it got little coverage

[Cha]

5. It got little coverage because it

is important..the US corporatemedia, as we know, isn't known for reporting on anything substantial for the country.

[lxlxlxl]

3. gorbachev is always worth listening to...

on charlie rose or in FT...glad the NYT posted him

there is absolutely no reason why russia and the u.s. have to be enemies or even economic rivals. the antagonism is only to benefit the economic elites and the military complexes in both countries.

thanks for this

[Vidar]

4. I entirely agree.

[Cha]

6. Thanks Tom!

I love this Prez..

"As part of his visit to Moscow, President Obama made a special effort to engage a broad cross-section of Russian society. He showed an ability to listen and sought to persuade his listeners that our two nations have shared interests and compatible values. I hope the president’s contacts with the Russian public will contribute to a better understanding of the environment in which our country is making its transition to democracy.

To sum up: There is clearly a more favorable atmosphere between the United States and Russia, as well as some initial results from this first meeting. As they say, well begun, half done. But I know from experience how difficult the other half can be."

[Forkboy]

7. Recommended.

Thank you.