Kaplan needs to pose a second question. Is the USA the enemy of Russia? Under the Bush administration, who can trust the USA on anything, as we spit on treaties and international obligations, particularly those involving arms control?

Actually, just as Bush is the best thing that ever happened in advancing Bin Laden's agenda to destabilize the Middle East and make our government afraid of its own shadow, Bush could be the best thing that ever happened for Russia. Picture this scenario: Bush attacks Iran and preciptates a world-wide depression as oil supplies from the Persian Gulf are largely cut-off. Who's the largest oil producer, covering their own industrial needs plus exporting? Russia!

You are right about the Bush administration policies being fantastic for Russia so far. Russia's position and status in the world has risen dramatically since we came under this Bush administration. The only concern Russia has at this point is protecting itself from this bunch of loose cannons long enough to fully reap the benefits.