The vulnerabilities that lie behind Putin’s belligerence

Commentary feature in which author discusses Russia's foreign policy under Vladimir Putin in the light of the military conflict with Georgia, August 2008. While Russia seems strong, the writer detects many fundamental weaknesses and concludes 'Longer term, the west’s strategic response should be guided by a clear-sighted appreciation of Russia’s weaknesses as well as its strengths. There will come a time when Moscow itself badly needs the shelter of the international order Mr Putin now so visibly disdains. The US and Europe should not seek confrontation with Russia; but nor should they retreat when Mr Putin brandishes his gun'.