From: Luc Stenger <luc@stenger.com>
Subject: RE: 2008-#221-Johnson's Russia List
Date: Tue, 9 Dec 2008
A comment on § 8 :
Russians are very good at chess and Mr Putin is quite naturally acting during the "transition" to gain as much "ground" as he can.
The outgoing administration is a "lame duck" even if it could still take major measures. The incoming administration, despite the speed and momentum given by the President Elect, is still only preparing to be in the "starting blocks".
As the "international relations and security team" is ready a few "strong but responsible" words should be heard from Mr Obama or once the inauguration of the President elect over the ground to catch up will be a lot (remember the Chinese play of GO). The expected words should be expressing clearly "mutual respect and understanding" favoring "cooperation rather confrontation" but also readiness in case things cross the line.