Somehow I don’t believe Putin that it would be impossible for Russia to become a totalitarian state again, just as I don’t believe him that Teheran is developing its nuclear program for only ‘peaceful purposes.’ Bush has publicly criticized Putin for what seems to most outsiders to be a lack of concern for upholding democratic standards. (Expect criticism from Democrats on ‘rocking the boat’ with Russia, despite recent complaints that Bush wasn’t doing enough to encourage democracy in Russia.) With Russia pushing its weapons and intelligence capabilities, it is more vital now than ever that our relationship with Russia remain friendly. However, the best way to do that over the long term is to ensure that Russia remains democratic. Putin may not like it, but Bush’s commitment to democracy everywhere may come into conflict with the typically Russian taste for control.