During the past few years Russian oil revenues have generated a surplus of $500 billion, and Russia is using this money to rebuild and expand its military after many years of neglect.
The refurbishment of the Russian military has been accompanied by a revival of the cold war, and we are in the midst of a resurgence of Russia and its totalitarian machinations.
The foray into Georgia is an example of the mentality of the Russian leadership, and Russia might be rekindling a close relationship with Cuba, including the reopening of a sophisticated electronic intelligence gathering operation in Lourdes, Cuba. Russia has conducted talks with Cuba, Syria and Vietnam on the use of naval bases, has sent naval forces to visit Venezuelan ports, and has promised to help Chavez develop a nuclear “energy”(???) program.
As the largest consumer of oil in the world we have to continue to reduce our oil consumption, which will help our economy and the environment, exert downward pressure on oil prices, and decrease the revenue going to Russia and other foreign countries. We need fuel efficient vehicles, more alternative energy sources, increased domestic oil and natural gas production, and more nuclear power plants.
Donald A. Moskowitz
Londonderry, NH
The Pennsylvania State University
Class of 1963
