Dicking Russia

While even proud neocons are wearily admitting this administration's lame duck status, the White House seems determined to show that they still have plenty of ideas on how to screw up the nation. One of the biggest obstacles to reaching an acceptable conclusion to Iran's nuclear ambitions is Russia. They're as eager to get their hands on more Middle Eastern oil as the Bushies, and they have plenty of nuclear technology of their own. If Russia isn't exactly going to be a willing partner in dealing with Iran, we might at least avoid antagonizing them to the point of actively trying to thwart us, right?

So, brilliant as ever, Dick Cheney decided a good tongue-lashing was in order to further alienate our erstwhile ally.

America and all of Europe also want to see Russia in the category of healthy, vibrant democracies. Yet in Russia today, opponents of reform are seeking to reverse the gains of the last decade. In many areas of civil society -- from religion and the news media, to advocacy groups and political parties -- the government has unfairly and improperly restricted the rights of her people. Other actions by the Russian government have been counterproductive, and could begin to affect relations with other countries. No legitimate interest is served when oil and gas become tools of intimidation or blackmail, either by supply manipulation or attempts to monopolize transportation. And no one can justify actions that undermine the territorial integrity of a neighbor, or interfere with democratic movements.

Russia has a choice to make. And there is no question that a return to democratic reform in Russia will generate further success for its people and greater respect among fellow nations. Democratization in Russia helped to end the Cold War, and the Russian people have made heroic progress in overcoming the miseries of the 20th century. They deserve now to live out their peaceful aspirations under a government that upholds freedom at home, and builds good relations abroad.

Russian officials immediately blasted the veep, of course, and I have no idea what he was thinking. Cold war nostalgia? Sheer stupidity? An actual desire to produce a contentious and unproductive showdown with Iran, and maybe start another war? Beats me, but it's clear that for all the damage this administration has done to America economically and diplomatically, they can still do a whole lot more before the history books officially add that chapter called "Worst. President. Ever."