A Russian air force Tupolev Tu-95 bomber is pictured being intercepted by a Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter before approaching too close to British airspace on August 17, 2007. In a creepy replay of the Cold War, long-range Russian bombers are flying outside their country's airspace in what Russian President Vladimir Putin said would be permanent surveillance missions to ward off unspecified security threats against Russia. (Handout photo by Crown copyright/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/MCT)
Don’t see anything wrong with this. It’s nice to see a country showing some nationalistic pride. However, if they want to remain a global power and regain their former lofty status, they’re going to have to start making babies and getting their act together. Right now, they are risking becoming what France was/is—a has been which still thinks it wields influence.
I suppose Putin is trying to position Russia as a leader of the international grievance block but that's a dangerous game. It's also unnecessary. Russia has ample assets to be a credible, constructive partner if it puts its own house in order. Putin's appetite for mischief is gratuitous and therefore malign.
“A Russian air force Tupolev Tu-95 bomber is pictured being intercepted by a Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter...”
I dont see any RAF markings on that fighter. Have they changed from the Red and Blue circles they used to use?
The Norwegians have been intercepting Russians also. Could this be one of theirs?
It’s not necessary to project power in Russia’s case.
Fine, we won Cold War I and we'll win Cold War II. I really don't think that's where we're going. If so, Russia is in a much weaker position. It'll be Russia alone, the Soviet bloc is no more.
We should have finished off the Russians back in 45 like Patton wanted.