The article linked below is an interview with the head of NATO, Mr. Rasmussen. Mr. Rasmussen is also the former Danish Prime Minister. In this interview he talks about how Europe has misread Vladimir Putin. Many scholars of IR have reached the same conclusion about Russia's leader. Vladimir Putin has been inconsistent with his words and attitudes towards international politics. I found interesting that Mr. Rasmussen points out Russia's commitment to improve Russian military during past years. In my opinion is a strong signal of Russia's intentions. According to Mr. Rasmussen, Russia has boosted military spending by 79% in the past decade. In response to Vladimir Putin's annexation of Crimea, NATO suspended all practical cooperation with Moscow. Europe still depends on Russian oil and gas which complicates the situation even further. After Russia's attitudes towards Georgia in 2008, I believe the West should have been more cautious towards Russia's territory expansion goals. A stronger reaction to Russian actions in 2008 could have prevented Russian actions in Crimea and Ukraine.
Link: http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303603904579492950683945762?mod=trending_now_5
Mariana Cury
PSC 102
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