Article
The contrast between the Clinton Administration''s eagerness to meet with Russian President Boris Yeltsin and the Bush Administration''s announcement that the first meeting with President Vladimir Putin would come "in due time" signifies an important turning point in U.S.-Russian relations.
President Bill Clinton''s readiness to proclaim Russia a democratic, strategic partner contrasts sharply with President George W. Bush''s downgrading of Russia from partner status to potential adversary, or even threat. Heated rhetoric from both sides has led some observers to forecast the advent of a "new Cold War." While highlighting differences over key policy issues such as American missile defense or Russia''s nuclear cooperation with Iran, the "war of words" has overshadowed many areas for mutually beneficial cooperation that exist today.
In the March issue of Russia Watch, the Strengthening Democratic Institutions Project offers an analysis of the state of U.S.-Russian relations and discusses prospects for future cooperation. The issue features commentary from leading analysts including Russian Ambassador to the United States Yuri Ushakov and U.S. Ambassador to Russia James Collins.
http://ksgnotes1.harvard.edu/BCSIA/Library.nsf/pubs/RW5