This refers to the article, “Russia’s Imperial Instinct” (Jan. 19), by Carl Bildt. The writer has written a very informative and well-balanced article. Indeed, Russia’s imperialist instinct is the main problem as far as maintaining global peace. It has become evident that Russia, under Putin, wants to establish its authority globally. That is why Russia did not hesitate to drop bombs on Syria while the tyrant, Assad, with Russia’s help, annihilated Aleppo. Russia, while destroying Aleppo, did not seem to realize that because of its aerial attacks, innocent civilians would lose their precious lives.
The second point is that Russia, as a superpower, has immense responsibility toward the world, but it seems Russia is unaware of its duty. Had Russia judged the situation correctly, it would not have assisted Assad in the destruction of Syria. Also, it would not have attacked Crimea, and installed its army in Eastern Ukraine. Further, Russia knows very well that Iran is a rogue state and yet Russia worked with Iran to carry out attacks on innocent Syrian civilians.
Russia has a soft spot toward the fascist factions of Hezbollah and the Shiite militias which is deplorable. It indicates that Russia wants to expand its control over the neighboring region by hook or by crook. The new president of the US who takes office on Jan. 20 must deal cautiously with Putin so that global peace may be maintained at any cost.
Russia’s ambitions
