[George W. Bush]

Sorry, that's my position, I know its unpopular here... but that's the strategic picture I see.

I don't think it's unpopular. Just that most of us don't see Russia as doing anything more than trying to get its $8 billion. Still, most of Saddam's recent WMD-related purchases came from Russian or the old Soviet bloc. So you have a point here.

But I think it's hard to assemble evidence that Russia is the leading force here. I still think it's France and Germany and it has a lot to do with control of Europe, not just protecting French/German/Russian revenue streams and the huge oil reserves of Iraq.

[JohnOG]

"It's hard to assemble evidence that Russia is the leading force here."

You are absolutely right GWB!!! That's the way Russia has arranged it...
"When you are strong, appear to be weak." Sun Tzu.
Thanks, I appreciate you listening to my point of view, I understand yours as well...John.