"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
In conclusion, the answer to the question posed by this article "Will the US succeed in breaking Russia to maintain dollar hegemony?
Is that really the question?
I like how the author uses a map of Russia to show how "big" it is. LOL Russian GDP will be overtaken by India in about 2 years. Russia has a declining population and ZERO technological innovation. Only the author, and a few on this board, fear Russia.
"As the Ukrainian crisis escalated, the United States introduced several new rounds of sanctions targeting Russia’s defense, energy and banking sectors, and persuaded its allies to blacklist several Russian citizens and companies. As a protective measure, Russia decided to avoid making its payments in US dollars, which can be tracked and controlled by the United States government, Kommersant reported."
When no one except Americans need American dollars, a whole lot of those dollars held by others will flood the US economy. Guess what money inflation leads to.
<< <i>Only the author, and a few on this board, fear Russia. >>
I highly suspect that both Russia's and China's influence on the dollar weigh heavily on the minds of US economic policy makers. Probably keeps a few US foreign policy makers late at the office as well. Unlike the rest of the world, these are the two countries where US military power cannot be used to enforce dollar hegemoney.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Neither Russia nor China are military threats to the USA. Oil will soon be the energy source of last resort, especially if Russia and China control it.
Russia is desperate, which makes them dangerous, but that also leads to bad decisions. Russia may be cutting off the hand that feeds them.
no one said China and Russia are military threats to the US. What was said was the US military is not part of the equation when it comes to forcing the US$ on the two countries. This is a unique position for the US which is used to enforcing the dollar with bombs and the threat of bombs elsewhere in the world. Hussein and Kadhafi personally paid the price.
Russia is no more desperate than is the US; US prodding in the Ukraine being a prime example. In europe Russia is realing in the mouths it feeds. Look for Germany to cozy up with Russia, ultimately putting the future of NATO at risk.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Germany will not get in bed with Russia. You forget about a little country that sits between them that is heavily supported by the US. >>
Germany will choose what it sees is best for Germany.
<< <i>Russia and China can use whatever currency they wish. The USA couldn't care less. >>
The dollar masters most definitely care.
<< <i>Besides, the best thing for the US would be to let other countries take on the burden of having a reserve currency. >>
Like Britain did? Now nothing more than a socialist has been no longer in control of the seas or a world empire.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
This stupid Cat n Mouse game Russia is playing might finally come out now that satellite imaging shows Russian ground units in Ukraine. No suprise here, I especially find it funny that this happens immediately after Ukraines president meets Putin.
Hopefully this whole thing blows up in Putins face and cripples the Russian Economy, F Him and F Russia the way I see it.
Russian takeover of the Ukraine is a fait accompli as the fumbling Nato nations are debating ineffective sanctions while Putin holds the cards, the petroleum and is not afraid of using his military.
Question is, does he stop there or continue to reestablish the Soviet Union. In a world of Neville Chamberlains, there is little to stand in his way.
Perhaps a demilitarized zone surrounding Russia like in North Korea/South Korea. Is that even feasible. A new iron curtain except the West will be erecting it to keep the Russians out.
<< <i>Perhaps a demilitarized zone surrounding Russia like in North Korea/South Korea. Is that even feasible. A new iron curtain except the West will be erecting it to keep the Russians out. >>
Hell, we cannot even secure the boarder with Mexico and Europe has even less guts than we do.
<< <i>Perhaps a demilitarized zone surrounding Russia like in North Korea/South Korea. Is that even feasible. A new iron curtain except the West will be erecting it to keep the Russians out. >>
Hell, we cannot even secure the boarder with Mexico and Europe has even less guts than we do. >>
What does this have to do with the US besides the rent seeking needs of the 1% ?
We have no moral authority to judge Putin. We are slaughtering people all over the middle east with drones and bombs.
The world is tired of our holier than thou attitude and our constant meddling .
Had a few with my Ukrainian friend yesterday. She has a couple friends that fled Ukraine last week, staying with her until they get settled into something here. Left with a couple suitcases each and that's it.
The news we get here is far from the truth. The death toll is under reported by a factor of 4 according to her family still there and it's full on war. She had 2 friends so far that have died from the Russians.
You really cannot appreciate how all the news over from there hits home here - having friends that have disappeared, family in refugee status now and quite a bit of the work I did there when I lived there undone and destroyed - but more than that - the lives shattered and destroyed.
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
"the American scheme of world domination through military aggression and unlimited money-printing is failing before our eyes. The public has no interest in any more “boots on the ground,” bombing campaigns do nothing to reign in militants that Americans themselves helped organize and equip, dollar hegemony is slipping away with each passing day, and the Federal Reserve is fresh out of magic bullets and faces a choice between crashing the stock market and crashing the bond market. In order to stop, or at least forestall this downward slide into financial/economic/political oblivion, the US must move quickly to undermine every competing economy in the world. . ."
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Incredible amount of Anti-American, Pro-Russian misguided and ill-formed opinion. >>
Most likely because you didn't see it on CNBC.
I'll take that as your disagreement that the public has no interest in any more “boots on the ground,” bombing campaigns that do nothing to reign in militants that Americans themselves helped organize and equip, that dollar hegemony is slipping away with each passing day, and that the Federal Reserve is fresh out of magic bullets and faces a choice between crashing the stock market and crashing the bond market.
Sorry, but like on many occasions gotta disagree with ya on this one as well. Patriotism is a noble thing, I spent most of my life as a DoD employee on the front lines of the cold war, but it is a set of blinders when it comes to objectively analyzing national and world wide economic conditions. Playing the patriotism card distracts from accurately seeing the realities of misguided economic planning/control. As it has done for centuries, reality is what will ultimately determine the value of PMs. Those who depend on discriminate information end up with discriminate knowledge.
If ya gotta drink the koolaide at least try different flavors. Or, just refuse to be one of these guys:
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
"All available resources ought to be put to work in the war effort even if that involves running up budget deficits."
Must be threatening his dollar holdings.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
The STHF is going to happen in the next few days, the ceasefire(really a joke anyway since the shooting never really stopped) is crumbling and the Russian tanks and APCs are rumbling.
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
<< <i>The STHF is going to happen in the next few days, the ceasefire(really a joke anyway since the shooting never really stopped) is crumbling and the Russian tanks and APCs are rumbling. >>
Maybe the ceasefire was a joke but at least it wasn't making headlines every day which was nice, Russian combat units were mobilized already and on the border then they moved out now they are back again, maybe this time they invade maybe not either way I hope nothing stupid happens like the United States offering more than monetary sanctions. I'm not concerned about the EU assisting with military forces because without the U.S. Backing them they will do nothing.
The bigger concern for Europe etc is not Ukraine but the uptick in Russian probing of flight corridors, sending submarines on recon into coastal waters etc. You can bet your bottom that the Baltic countries are worried as hell - they have had Russian A/C, recon and armed attack overflying their territories lately. Even Canada and Japan have had their coastal waters probed by Russian bombers - and the VVS did a flight down the west coast of the USA.
I think Putin is sending the feelers out to see what reactions he gets - perhaps hoping to provoke a conflict somewhere else to divert attention from Ukraine.
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
<< <i>The bigger concern for Europe etc is not Ukraine but the uptick in Russian probing of flight corridors, sending submarines on recon into coastal waters etc. You can bet your bottom that the Baltic countries are worried as hell - they have had Russian A/C, recon and armed attack overflying their territories lately. Even Canada and Japan have had their coastal waters probed by Russian bombers - and the VVS did a flight down the west coast of the USA.
I think Putin is sending the feelers out to see what reactions he gets - perhaps hoping to provoke a conflict somewhere else to divert attention from Ukraine. >>
Provoke a conflict elsewhere like where? Are you thinking he wants a Western European Nation to attack one of his Aircrafts or Subs? Or Canada, Japan for that matter? No chance he wants that, think about it, any conflict with an EU would pretty much garantee imediate US backing, forget about Canada or Japan the 7th fleet is patrolling those waters and nothing short of a tactical Nuclear Missile could stop that force. I think its a cat and mouse game to raise tensions for whatever reason, at this point there is not much hiding the fact that Russia is backing Rebel forces in Ukraine, why Putin is massing units on the border is the big question, so far the rebels fighting Ukraine regulars is pretty much as far as this can go without the rest of the world siding with Ukraine, if Putin straight up invades then the alarm will go off in Europe and then you would see massive buildups of boots and armored units in Europe to prepare for further Russian Aggression, lets hope this doesnt happen.
It's difficult to know where this will ultimately go.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, we (perhaps ethnocentrically) hoped that Russians would embrace the opportunity for individual freedom and all that entails. That's never been a Russian value, though. And that, plus the fact that cynicism under Soviet communism pretty much leeched out any semblance of civic responsibility in most people there, brought about a grab-while-you-can attitude among those with connections, and finally a reemergence of Russia-under-siege mentality under Putin.
In a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors. >>
It is very difficult to aspire for a reality that you and your ancestors have never known, only heard about - and in distant lands. But even countries that were recently embracing democracy are now tilting back towards totalitarian dictatorships - Hungary, Romania and Turkey are present members of NATO that are led by leaders that are clearly demonstrating that they will not tolerate dissenting opinion. And Russia can totally appreciate that.
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
<< <i> Hungary, Romania and Turkey are present members of NATO that are led by leaders that are clearly demonstrating that they will not tolerate dissenting opinion. >>
<< <i>It's difficult to know where this will ultimately go.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, we (perhaps ethnocentrically) hoped that Russians would embrace the opportunity for individual freedom and all that entails. That's never been a Russian value, though. And that, plus the fact that cynicism under Soviet communism pretty much leeched out any semblance of civic responsibility in most people there, brought about a grab-while-you-can attitude among those with connections, and finally a reemergence of Russia-under-siege mentality under Putin.
In a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors. >>
Let us not forget why the Soviet Union collapsed. An economic lesson the US fails to grasp.
<< <i>in a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world. >>
On the contrary, Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia. >>
The Middle East? You mean his agreement with Assad?
Europe? You mean his deal with Belarus?
China? You mean his potentially disastrous kiss-up to China, given falling oil prices? Link
Putin and Russia could have been so much more successful, had they decided to integrate with the west rather than try to reestablish an empire of buffer states. Russia has the natural resources, no question. But in a deflationary world, Putin has perhaps chosen the worst possible moment to posture as he has, and to stir nationalistic isolationism.
Russia is absolutely friendless. Its only "allies" are intimidated border entities and the beleaguered Assad. China is a wolf outside the door, exploiting Putin's grandiosity/desperation.
<< <i>Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia. >>
The Middle East? You mean his agreement with Assad?
Europe? You mean his deal with Belarus?
China? You mean his potentially disastrous kiss-up to China, given falling oil prices? Link
Putin and Russia could have been so much more successful, had they decided to integrate with the west rather than try to reestablish an empire of buffer states. Russia has the natural resources, no question. But in a deflationary world, Putin has perhaps chosen the worst possible moment to posture as he has, and to stir nationalistic isolationism.
Russia is absolutely friendless. Its only "allies" are intimidated border entities and the beleaguered Assad. China is a wolf outside the door, exploiting Putin's grandiosity/desperation. >>
Just a few of Russia's major trading partners: Germany, Italy, Japan, Greece, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, The Netherlands, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Turkey, S. Korea, and China. The European Union alone accounts for about half of Russia's exports and imports.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
"It was claimed that the images were produced by a British or US satellite. The "leaked" pictures show a missile streaking towards the MH17 flight which was downed, killing all 298 people on board, it was claimed."
How do the Soviets get pictures taken by US or British spy satellites?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
"It was claimed that the images were produced by a British or US satellite. The "leaked" pictures show a missile streaking towards the MH17 flight which was downed, killing all 298 people on board, it was claimed."
How do the Soviets get pictures taken by US or British spy satellites? >>
Same way the Chinese got our credit cards from Home Depot.......Bernake emailed it to them. I heard he was denied for a Refi and needed a bigger down payment. What's the exchange rate on Rubles anyway?
@ Elite CNC Routing & Woodworks on Facebook. Check out my work. Too many positive BST transactions with too many members to list.
New finance minister a 20 year US State Department veteran? Doesn't pass the smell test. How many countries does the CIA now own?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
New finance minister a 20 year US State Department veteran? Doesn't pass the smell test. How many countries does the CIA now own? >>
Poroshenko has three foreigners(given Ukrainian citizenship just last week) in his cabinet. Of course having a CIA plant in an official post in the government plays real well on Russian television. With all the ISIS crap on the news here in America not much is being said about all the still heavy fighting going on in Donets'k - just as many people are dying as before the "cease fire".
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
Will very soon be dictating PM markets - the conflict may very well explode into much more in the next few weeks. Seems as though the Russians want to take Mariupol - which is an absolute dump beyond all cognition for quality of life, but does have metal manufacturing ie iron works.
In memory of my kitty Seryozha 14.2.1996 ~ 13.9.2016 and Shadow 3.4.2015 - 16.4.21
Im at the point now where I dont think this situation in Ukraine will end anytime soon, the Eastern European people involved are very similar to Middle Eastern fanatics. Thousands of more people need to be killed before this will work itself out.
Comments
Will The US Succeed in Breaking Russia to Maintain Dollar Hegemony?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Is that really the question?
I like how the author uses a map of Russia to show how "big" it is. LOL Russian GDP will be overtaken by India in about 2 years. Russia has a declining population and ZERO technological innovation. Only the author, and a few on this board, fear Russia.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
<< <i>it's the tit-for-tat sanctions that will bring chaos to the involved economies. >>
US sanctions put another nail in US$ coffin
"As the Ukrainian crisis escalated, the United States introduced several new rounds of sanctions targeting Russia’s defense, energy and banking sectors, and persuaded its allies to blacklist several Russian citizens and companies. As a protective measure, Russia decided to avoid making its payments in US dollars, which can be tracked and controlled by the United States government, Kommersant reported."
When no one except Americans need American dollars, a whole lot of those dollars held by others will flood the US economy. Guess what money inflation leads to.
<< <i>Only the author, and a few on this board, fear Russia. >>
I highly suspect that both Russia's and China's influence on the dollar weigh heavily on the minds of US economic policy makers. Probably keeps a few US foreign policy makers late at the office as well. Unlike the rest of the world, these are the two countries where US military power cannot be used to enforce dollar hegemoney.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Russia is desperate, which makes them dangerous, but that also leads to bad decisions. Russia may be cutting off the hand that feeds them.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
Russia is no more desperate than is the US; US prodding in the Ukraine being a prime example. In europe Russia is realing in the mouths it feeds. Look for Germany to cozy up with Russia, ultimately putting the future of NATO at risk.
And, from your favorite website:
Merkel Slams US Hegemony?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Russia and China can use whatever currency they wish. The USA couldn't care less.
Besides, the best thing for the US would be to let other countries take on the burden of having a reserve currency.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
<< <i>Germany will not get in bed with Russia. You forget about a little country that sits between them that is heavily supported by the US. >>
Germany will choose what it sees is best for Germany.
<< <i>Russia and China can use whatever currency they wish. The USA couldn't care less. >>
The dollar masters most definitely care.
<< <i>Besides, the best thing for the US would be to let other countries take on the burden of having a reserve currency. >>
Like Britain did? Now nothing more than a socialist has been no longer in control of the seas or a world empire.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Hopefully this whole thing blows up in Putins face and cripples the Russian Economy, F Him and F Russia the way I see it.
<< <i>Besides, the best thing for the US would be to let other countries take on the burden of having a reserve currency. >>
Sort of like breaking the levy in New Orleans.
Yes, Germany will do what is best for Germany. If you think that means getting in bed with Russia then again I think you should do a little research.
Dollar masters? That's funny.
I find it fascinating that you admire every country except the one you live in.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
During the Georgia-Russia conflict, it was noted that this was the first battle between two nations that had McDonald's.
Logic was, once countries embraced Western economics, they would engage in civility and eschew warfare.
The elimination of Mc'Ds hold some symbolic importance.
<< <i>Interesting that Russia is closing up the McDonalds restaurants.
During the Georgia-Russia conflict, it was noted that this was the first battle between two nations that had McDonald's.
Logic was, once countries embraced Western economics, they would engage in civility and eschew warfare.
The elimination of Mc'Ds hold some symbolic importance. >>
Possibly concern for the health of citizens
They caught on that the US was trying to kill them off with a secret weapon namely the McRib
the McRib is back
<< <i>They caught on that the US was trying to kill them off with a secret weapon namely the McRib >>
Certainly potatoes, cabbage and hearty borscht provide better nutrition.
Indeed. They just forced several hundred Russian citizens into the unemployment lines. That will teach those darn Yankees. Lol.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
Question is, does he stop there or continue to reestablish the Soviet Union. In a world of Neville Chamberlains, there is little to stand in his way.
Box of 20
<< <i>Perhaps a demilitarized zone surrounding Russia like in North Korea/South Korea. Is that even feasible. A new iron curtain except the West will be erecting it to keep the Russians out. >>
Hell, we cannot even secure the boarder with Mexico and Europe has even less guts than we do.
<< <i>
<< <i>Perhaps a demilitarized zone surrounding Russia like in North Korea/South Korea. Is that even feasible. A new iron curtain except the West will be erecting it to keep the Russians out. >>
Hell, we cannot even secure the boarder with Mexico and Europe has even less guts than we do. >>
What does this have to do with the US besides the rent seeking needs of the 1% ?
We have no moral authority to judge Putin. We are slaughtering people all over the middle east with drones and bombs.
The world is tired of our holier than thou attitude and our constant meddling .
<< <i>The world is tired of our holier than thou attitude and our constant meddling . >>
Until they come hat in hand, begging for help.
The news we get here is far from the truth. The death toll is under reported by a factor of 4 according to her family still there and it's full on war. She had 2 friends so far that have died from the Russians.
How to Start a War and Lose an Empire
"the American scheme of world domination through military aggression and unlimited money-printing is failing before our eyes. The public has no interest in any more “boots on the ground,” bombing campaigns do nothing to reign in militants that Americans themselves helped organize and equip, dollar hegemony is slipping away with each passing day, and the Federal Reserve is fresh out of magic bullets and faces a choice between crashing the stock market and crashing the bond market. In order to stop, or at least forestall this downward slide into financial/economic/political oblivion, the US must move quickly to undermine every competing economy in the world. . ."
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
Incredible amount of Anti-American, Pro-Russian misguided and ill-formed opinion.
Knowledge is the enemy of fear
<< <i>Did you get paid to link that?
Incredible amount of Anti-American, Pro-Russian misguided and ill-formed opinion. >>
Most likely because you didn't see it on CNBC.
I'll take that as your disagreement that the public has no interest in any more “boots on the ground,” bombing campaigns that do nothing to reign in militants that Americans themselves helped organize and equip, that dollar hegemony is slipping away with each passing day, and that the Federal Reserve is fresh out of magic bullets and faces a choice between crashing the stock market and crashing the bond market.
Sorry, but like on many occasions gotta disagree with ya on this one as well. Patriotism is a noble thing, I spent most of my life as a DoD employee on the front lines of the cold war, but it is a set of blinders when it comes to objectively analyzing national and world wide economic conditions. Playing the patriotism card distracts from accurately seeing the realities of misguided economic planning/control. As it has done for centuries, reality is what will ultimately determine the value of PMs. Those who depend on discriminate information end up with discriminate knowledge.
If ya gotta drink the koolaide at least try different flavors. Or, just refuse to be one of these guys:
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Did you get paid to link that?
Incredible amount of Anti-American, Pro-Russian misguided and ill-formed opinion. >>
Appears to be a Putin lackey....all pro Russian & Anti US and Western propaganda smear campaign.
Half of the picture only provides half of the information. The wider the view the better the understanding.
Soros now a war hawk:
"All available resources ought to be put to work in the war effort even if that involves running up budget deficits."
Must be threatening his dollar holdings.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>The STHF is going to happen in the next few days, the ceasefire(really a joke anyway since the shooting never really stopped) is crumbling and the Russian tanks and APCs are rumbling. >>
Maybe the ceasefire was a joke but at least it wasn't making headlines every day which was nice, Russian combat units were mobilized already and on the border then they moved out now they are back again, maybe this time they invade maybe not either way I hope nothing stupid happens like the United States offering more than monetary sanctions. I'm not concerned about the EU assisting with military forces because without the U.S. Backing them they will do nothing.
I think Putin is sending the feelers out to see what reactions he gets - perhaps hoping to provoke a conflict somewhere else to divert attention from Ukraine.
<< <i>The bigger concern for Europe etc is not Ukraine but the uptick in Russian probing of flight corridors, sending submarines on recon into coastal waters etc. You can bet your bottom that the Baltic countries are worried as hell - they have had Russian A/C, recon and armed attack overflying their territories lately. Even Canada and Japan have had their coastal waters probed by Russian bombers - and the VVS did a flight down the west coast of the USA.
I think Putin is sending the feelers out to see what reactions he gets - perhaps hoping to provoke a conflict somewhere else to divert attention from Ukraine. >>
Provoke a conflict elsewhere like where? Are you thinking he wants a Western European Nation to attack one of his Aircrafts or Subs? Or Canada, Japan for that matter? No chance he wants that, think about it, any conflict with an EU would pretty much garantee imediate US backing, forget about Canada or Japan the 7th fleet is patrolling those waters and nothing short of a tactical Nuclear Missile could stop that force. I think its a cat and mouse game to raise tensions for whatever reason, at this point there is not much hiding the fact that Russia is backing Rebel forces in Ukraine, why Putin is massing units on the border is the big question, so far the rebels fighting Ukraine regulars is pretty much as far as this can go without the rest of the world siding with Ukraine, if Putin straight up invades then the alarm will go off in Europe and then you would see massive buildups of boots and armored units in Europe to prepare for further Russian Aggression, lets hope this doesnt happen.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, we (perhaps ethnocentrically) hoped that Russians would embrace the opportunity for individual freedom and all that entails. That's never been a Russian value, though. And that, plus the fact that cynicism under Soviet communism pretty much leeched out any semblance of civic responsibility in most people there, brought about a grab-while-you-can attitude among those with connections, and finally a reemergence of Russia-under-siege mentality under Putin.
In a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors.
Here's a warning parable for coin collectors...
<< <i>
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors. >>
It is very difficult to aspire for a reality that you and your ancestors have never known, only heard about - and in distant lands. But even countries that were recently embracing democracy are now tilting back towards totalitarian dictatorships - Hungary, Romania and Turkey are present members of NATO that are led by leaders that are clearly demonstrating that they will not tolerate dissenting opinion. And Russia can totally appreciate that.
<< <i> Hungary, Romania and Turkey are present members of NATO that are led by leaders that are clearly demonstrating that they will not tolerate dissenting opinion. >>
...I can add one more.
<< <i>It's difficult to know where this will ultimately go.
After the Soviet Union collapsed, we (perhaps ethnocentrically) hoped that Russians would embrace the opportunity for individual freedom and all that entails. That's never been a Russian value, though. And that, plus the fact that cynicism under Soviet communism pretty much leeched out any semblance of civic responsibility in most people there, brought about a grab-while-you-can attitude among those with connections, and finally a reemergence of Russia-under-siege mentality under Putin.
In a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world.
In the meanwhile, I expect that Russia will continue to nibble at its borders, and frighten its neighbors. >>
This is an outstanding post, well read my friend.
<< <i>in a self-fulfilling prophecy, Putin has demonstrated that the world conspires against Russia and contrives its downfall. It's hard to envision any alternative but intensifying isolation and suspicion of outsiders for Russia, and the support in such attitudes by most of the populace because of their history.
The post-Soviet era may be considered by historians to have been the last best opportunity for Russian to have successfully integrated with the world. >>
On the contrary, Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia. >>
The Middle East? You mean his agreement with Assad?
Europe? You mean his deal with Belarus?
China? You mean his potentially disastrous kiss-up to China, given falling oil prices? Link
Putin and Russia could have been so much more successful, had they decided to integrate with the west rather than try to reestablish an empire of buffer states. Russia has the natural resources, no question. But in a deflationary world, Putin has perhaps chosen the worst possible moment to posture as he has, and to stir nationalistic isolationism.
Russia is absolutely friendless. Its only "allies" are intimidated border entities and the beleaguered Assad. China is a wolf outside the door, exploiting Putin's grandiosity/desperation.
Here's a warning parable for coin collectors...
<< <i>
<< <i>Putin is successfully integrating Russia into the world as demonstrated by his growing agreements with the Middle East, Europe and even China. Deliberately leaving the US out only punishes the US, not Russia. >>
The Middle East? You mean his agreement with Assad?
Europe? You mean his deal with Belarus?
China? You mean his potentially disastrous kiss-up to China, given falling oil prices? Link
Putin and Russia could have been so much more successful, had they decided to integrate with the west rather than try to reestablish an empire of buffer states. Russia has the natural resources, no question. But in a deflationary world, Putin has perhaps chosen the worst possible moment to posture as he has, and to stir nationalistic isolationism.
Russia is absolutely friendless. Its only "allies" are intimidated border entities and the beleaguered Assad. China is a wolf outside the door, exploiting Putin's grandiosity/desperation. >>
Just a few of Russia's major trading partners: Germany, Italy, Japan, Greece, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, The Netherlands, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Turkey, S. Korea, and China. The European Union alone accounts for about half of Russia's exports and imports.
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
"It was claimed that the images were produced by a British or US satellite. The "leaked" pictures show a missile streaking towards the MH17 flight which was downed, killing all 298 people on board, it was claimed."
How do the Soviets get pictures taken by US or British spy satellites?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Satellite pic of moment flight MH17 was fired upon
"It was claimed that the images were produced by a British or US satellite. The "leaked" pictures show a missile streaking towards the MH17 flight which was downed, killing all 298 people on board, it was claimed."
How do the Soviets get pictures taken by US or British spy satellites?
Same way the Chinese got our credit cards from Home Depot.......Bernake emailed it to them. I heard he was denied for a Refi and needed a bigger down payment. What's the exchange rate on Rubles anyway?
Too many positive BST transactions with too many members to list.
New finance minister a 20 year US State Department veteran? Doesn't pass the smell test. How many countries does the CIA now own?
"Interest rates, the price of money, are the most important market. And, perversely, they’re the market that’s most manipulated by the Fed." - Doug Casey
<< <i>Now that Ukraine's gold has been "liberated," time to send in the carpetbaggers to pick up the scraps
New finance minister a 20 year US State Department veteran? Doesn't pass the smell test. How many countries does the CIA now own? >>
Poroshenko has three foreigners(given Ukrainian citizenship just last week) in his cabinet. Of course having a CIA plant in an official post in the government plays real well on Russian television. With all the ISIS crap on the news here in America not much is being said about all the still heavy fighting going on in Donets'k - just as many people are dying as before the "cease fire".
Is Joe Biden's son still on the board of directors of the Ukrainian gas company? Answer that question and there's the answer to your smell test.
I knew it would happen.
<< <i>New finance minister a 20 year US State Department veteran? Doesn't pass the smell test. How many countries does the CIA now own?
Is Joe Biden's son still on the board of directors of the Ukrainian gas company? Answer that question and there's the answer to your smell test. >>
I hadn't heard otherwise, Biden is still there as far as I know.
Well I’m hoping the current situation fades into what this thread did.