Vladimir Putin Commentary

Roses for the Bear

Kosovo’s independence could unleash a storm of instability in the neighborhood. That’s why Russia and Georgia need to start ironing out their differences.

Freetocracy

Somewhere between liberal democracy and autocracy lies the political netherworld of the post-Soviet states. Will countries like Georgia, Ukraine and Azerbaijan ever be totally free?

Realpolitik Resurgent?

America’s heart tells it to defend small Eastern European states at all costs, but policy makers would come to a different conclusion if they used their heads.

Russian Roulette

American commentators think they know what is best for Russia, looking to the “democratic” days of Yeltsin. But they’re really just taking a gamble.

Report and Retort: Kosovo's Future

Kosovo’s independence could have costly unforeseen consequences. Or so argues National Interest Publisher Dimitri K. Simes in a debate with Ambassador Frank Wisner, the U.S. Special Envoy to the talks on the province’s future status.

Jacob's Jottings: Outlook 2008

How will the War on Terror play out? Who will win the presidential nominations? What's in store for Pakistan and Russia? Senior editor Jacob Heilbrunn makes his predictions.

The Other 'New Russia'

The public focus in the West has been on Russia’s electoral politics and Vladimir Putin’s possible successors. But emerging consumer markets there represent another “new Russia” that the media is largely ignoring.

The Rose Revolution, Four Years Later

As the January elections in Georgia approach, takes a look at the successes and failures of the Rose Revolution.

Beacon of Democracy or Khachapuri Republic?

Assessing progress toward democracy in Georgia points to positive as well as negative developments. What Washington has done well—and where it has failed—is revealing.

NI Online's Continuing Russia Coverage

Six Russia-watchers weigh in on the Russian elections, the internal state of the country, and Vladimir Putin's nomination of a successor.

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May 20, 2013