This story fails to address the issue of whether the proposed ABM system is even workable. Republican administrations love vastly expensive weapons systems such as Reagan's "Star Wars" and the Bush administration's proposed ABM system supposedly meant to deal with an attack from Iran. This is ludicrous in my view, and I think the hidden agenda is giving an ABM system to Israel. It is not surprising the Russians take offense at Poland's quick acceptance of a deal with the US days after the war in Georgia erupted.

Former satellite nations are understandably nervous about déjà vu all over again. However, they still believe in alliances with America, which are bolstered by the fact that the Bush administration—which gave us Iraq and its chilling parallels to Russia’s invasion—has but a few months left at the trough and will be replaced by a more responsible administration. Even if McCain should take the presidency, he will undoubtedly be hemmed in by a Democrat congress and thus be held more accountable.

This tightly written, well-sourced piece examines the complexity and anxiety in a part of the world that is proving, again, to be extremely volatile. The article presents good historical context and looks at what the future may hold for Eastern Europe based on a militaristic approach by Russia towards its neighboring former Soviet republics. Direct quotations from across the spectrum -- a Polish TV presenter, a Russian army general, a Polish veteran of WWII -- give the article a balanced, well-rounded tone. The reporter presents many viewpoints, which helps to show just how complicated this situation is.

This seems like a rather cold war macro-analysis with little regard to actual events in Georgia.

Most facts regarding the NEW Europe and their history are missing. Todays new Europe is chock full of right wingers, Nazi collaborators and peolple in politics bend on vengeance against Russia, Germany and others that have been critical of New Europe's military support of the US. The US and it's representatives, especially C.Rice, are on a world wind tour selling armor and buying the support thru fueling the Cold War. Missile systems, etc etc. Typical western media article, nothing new or balanced.