Introduction to International Politics
Foreign Event Analysis
| Locale | ![[]](http://www.kvasaheim.com/flags/flag15-ru.png "Flag of Russian Federation") | Russian Federation |
|---|---|---|
| Title |
Russia Refuses US Missile-Defense Proposal
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| Summary |
This week, Russia rejected a second US proposal to collaborate on a project to install a missile-defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic. The first proposal came in the beginning of 2007 and similar to the recent plan, included anti-ballistic missile components such as interceptor missiles. In the new proposal, the Bush administration has included the possibility of having Russian observers at the missile-defense locations. The US Missile Defense Agency is looking for collaboration with Russia but Russia not only fails to explain its objection, but has also clearly explained that the state is waiting to discuss the issue once Obama takes office.
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| Analysis |
Russia’s rejection of the US proposal is an act of self-interest and a desire to preserve power. Russia is acting rationally: considering the information they have right now about the US plan to establish a missile-defense system and the upcoming changes in US government positions, Russia is postponing their support of the plan. The state has determined the US proposal to be insufficient. Russia wants to be sure of its own role and the effects of its collaboration on such a proposal.
In addition, in this debate, Russia has significant control. In fact, in many ways, it seems Russia is calling all the shots. Instead of simply agreeing to the US plan or being open to discussion, Russia is keeping its distance. The state is opting to wait until Obama enters the office in the United States to continue discussion on the issue. Further, Russia is trying to manipulate opinions in US politics. Russia is accusing the Bush administration of attempting to affect, even limit, President-elect Obama’s input in this issue. Russia is aware of the internal US scheming and is choosing to bide its time and protect itself until the discord settles.
Finally, as the United States laments, Russia refuses to explain what part (or parts) of the proposal to which they object. Nor will Russia provide any justification for its behavior. The state is maintaining secrecy, again out of a desire to protect its own security.
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| Perspective |  | Realist |
| In-Region URL | ||
| Out-of-Region URL | ||
| Submitted | November 13, 2008 at 10:57 pm | |
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