[bailaviborita]

I admit I don't understand some of the "sucking up" (Chavez?), but I think he may be playing it smart with Russia (assuming he doesn't get played, as stated- and with the SECSTATE one doesn't know).

There's lots going on in the Central Asian States and to be only adversarial pretty much guarantees us little. With China, India, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, us, etc.- all playing the ultimate diplomacy game, a little "sucking up" might be warranted. I just hope they have their heads on tight- the situation there would make Machiavelli cringe. Only hope I have is some of these actors haven't shown the greatest international skill either.