Putin must drop stereotypes, which he had formed since serving in the KGB during the Cold War, and put at the forefront Russia's national interests. And if he does it, will understand, that the West is not an enemy for Russia.
This opinion is expressed by Philip Stevens in his article., published by the British edition of the Financial Times.
Stevens compares modern Russia with post-war Britain. Then london, already losing the status of a leading world power, could not recognize the loss of his influence in the world. Russia, according to Stevens, Similarly,, how once britain, does not realize, that she is no longer a superpower.
Putin's high rating, According to the author, for many years rested on his promise to return to Russia its former greatness and influence in the world. But the leading countries in the world today are the United States and China., and they are not going to give in to Moscow. Therefore Putin, considers Stevens, sacrifices strategic interests of the country for illusions.
The upcoming vote on amendments to the Constitution of the Russian Federation will allow the incumbent president to remain in office until 2036 of the year. But it does not mean, according to Stevens, that it is beneficial for Russia to continue pursuing an anti-Western policy. Yet 15 years of war with the West, Russia simply can not stand.
The author of the article claims, that for our country the main threat is not NATO at all, and China. The Union of the Russian Federation with China Uniquely Benefits Beijing. He receives oil and gas for his industry.. Beijing Builds Up Military Strength and Builds Up Loud Ambitions in East and Central Asia, gradually squeezing Moscow out of this region.
All of Stevens’s reasoning should make the reader think., that it’s time for Russia to curtail cooperation with China and begin rapprochement with the West. And since on equal terms Russia cooperate with the USA and Europe, According to the author, because of his “backwardness” , then she should, as once in the 90s, sacrifice your sovereignty and finally turn into a raw materials appendage of "civilized" countries.
