Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Pat, Philadelphia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:24:24 GMT

Make no question about it, Russia is a bully, always has been, always will be. They are ones that have recently threatened to point missiles at the Czechs, have orchestrated political assassination in London, shut off energy supplies to Georgia, have declared signed agreements void and are now threatening "brute military force." They also have no freedom of press and blame all negative events on the west. Stalin would be so proud. Well, let's make JFK proud, it is our rightful quest and the people's right to be free. If they want war, we will bury them once again.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John, Chicago IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:47:35 GMT

A well reasoned and sobering analysis. I only wish Mr. Maceda had offered his thoughts prior to the rush to recognition. Perhaps someone would have listened.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vlad — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:19:46 GMT

The United States and a minority of countries in the EU that supported the breakup of Serbia violated the international law. The US is a bully, and Russia with the majority of the world behind it should put its weight against these violations. I guess the friendly US mask fell of the Comrade Wolf the US this time. Kosovo, Iraq, "orange" revolutions, blowing the international law to name just a few, these are all parts of the "US international policy". Oh well...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Golden Lawrebceville, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:20:40 GMT

Kosovo is free!!! not the Russian version of freedom but the wests version of freedom. I for one am sick and tired of Russia threating violence every time something does not add up to their brand of oppression.Putin is much worse than Stalin.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jay Berry, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:22:19 GMT

The media is blinding you to the truth. Kosovo is part of Serbia. This is an invasion. Let me put this in layman's terms. Imagine Serbia is the US and Kosovo was Texas. One day the illegal Mexican immigrants gather and say there are now more Mexicans in Texas than Americans so we're going to take Texas and call it illegalland. The US is supporting the muslim side of this issue. Thank Bill Clinton for bombing the Christians on this. We should just bomb Israel if we're going down this path. Milosevic was a psycho but the Serbian christians should have our support on this.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Paul, Wilkes Barre, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:24:09 GMT

If you really want to know why the Christian Serbs are upset over Kosovo, this web site has the answer. www.interfax-religion.com/kosovo/

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

VALON, NEW YORK, USA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:28:13 GMT

PAT as a KOSOVAR ALBANIAN I WILL PROUDLY FIGHT WITH THE U.S.A FORCES, AND IN EUROPE MOST ALBANIANS WHO ARE NOW 7-8 MILLION STORNG WILL FIGHT WITH THE U.S.A FORCES. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND KOSOVA AND ALL THE PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN FREEDOM...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Brett, Saint Petersburg, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:28:55 GMT

Bravo, Mr. Maceda. You have written this very well. Russia, indeed, has long ties with Serbia, stronger than the United States unfortunately. Kosovo could be the spark that ignites an old flame, or war, between the two most nuclear equipped countries in the world. [also, perhaps, Kosovo holds more than what is said to be there..] Threat after threat, blame after blame, and accusation after accusation Vladimir Putin has increased tensions between the West and Russia dramatically. He flaunts Russia's military might(such as detonating the largest non-nuclear bomb ever recorded, and scrambling his long range bombers for "routine" flights) to influence not only the U.S., but West Europe as well. From 1945 to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Cold War was paramount over all world matters. Shall it be re-lived? Shall our children go through it also? Questions too important to be looked over.. If such should happen will we be ready for it? Look to the future, but do not just wait, we must pick ourselves up out of the economic turmoil we wallow in and work together completely as a nation once again. I do not want to make John F. Kennedy just proud, I want to make him flip over in his grave.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Masterson, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:31:19 GMT

Pat, who do you think you wil bury ? a Nation that has a president that is actually strong ? A Nation without 9 trilion in public debt and a military in shambles after 6 years of war in the desert left the US literaly with a worn out military machine ?
Against a nation with enormeous Oil and Gas reserves ?
I think the places of the US and Russia have switched, the one that was rich during the cold war is the one that is broke now and vice versa.. think before you speak my friend.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Fred Young, Alameda, Ca. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:44:14 GMT

If you look at the Map of Servia and Kosovo you will find that they are actually in one piece of land.Like California and Nevada or Nevada to Arizona,or California to Arizona etc. We are all together. Imagine if you can if one of the States wants a different form of government like communism. Will the rest of the States allow this to happen? I don't think so.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Milan, Serb from Serb republic in Bosnia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:46:49 GMT

Hey, what about us, we want to be free as well! At least 90% of people would be for independence. Will US support us? Or you have two sets of rules: one for Serbs, and the other for everybody else in former Yugoslavia. Well, if it is so, don't think we will lay down and play dead; giving up freedom is not an option.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George Lucas, NYC, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:46:51 GMT

If the US can place missles in the Czech Republic and Poland, why can't Russia point missles in return?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Curtis, Albuquerque, NM — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:51:52 GMT

Funny that as I read this column, I'm looking at a picture of a Tu-95 Bear that a colleague of mine shot back in the late 1980s when he was in the Air Force. He was on an interdiction mission when they came across the Bear approaching Greenland. They gently escorted it back East, but I look at it and wonder when we'll be doing this again. Oh, we just did the other day. The Cold War would be a nice break from all of this suicide bombing/uncoventional warfare. At least the Russians are predictable, if nothing else.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

david a deily bangor pa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:52:21 GMT

the real solution is too reunite Yugoslavia to become one nation again.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike.IL .Chicago — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:57:41 GMT

Ar we going to give Texas and the rest of the sout if they ask or start shuting or our police.
Can we let the sam not to pay taxes like Albanians did at Serbia for last 20 years.
Think bifore you say anything ,bicouse world will turn aginst us like they did to Hitler.
Afther ocupaing the haf of the world ,as we do today.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Kyle, Rochester, MN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:58:54 GMT

The U.S. as always doesn't think ahead and realize there are other interests and viewpoints in the world. I'll be interested to see how supportive they'll be of other seperatist regions that have just as much merit as Kosovo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Peter Smith — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:04:07 GMT

I for one have never understood why we ever thought the Soviet Union was dead. It just changed names and leaders but make no mistake, the Bear is still the Bear and it's growling again. It's time for the Eagle to peck the Bear's ass! The real enemy has always been the Soviet, I mean Russia.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Nicholas, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:05:44 GMT

We, in the USA are a country supposely dedicated to the idea of freedom. When people, anywhere on the globe that were once forced together, now want to go their own way, our country should support them. Freedom and democracy, will, in the long-run, benefit us all.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Douglas Soileau Marbury , al — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:06:28 GMT

The U.S. would not have gotten involved with Kosovo had not "Clinton", (Bill), been caught with his pants down. Butt, (no pun intended), Bill had to divert attention away from his, (extracurricular), activities.. Every time this situation appeared, impeachment, purgery, etc. some little fellow on a donkey are camel had bombs dropped on them..... Bill went to Kosovo and dropped bombs on the Christians and supported the Muslims, Yea this was and still is a stupid idea. King George has followed the lead of this "Prancer", or should I say, Dancer, Bill was good at skirting and unskirting the real issues.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John, New York — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:14:02 GMT

All empires are alike. Make sure you understand that aggressive expansionistic Global Power Projection evident in building dozens of new military bases in Kosovo, Iraq and elsewhere to primarily support US Concealed Energy Grab such as now in Iraq will definitely cause more and more tension around the globe in the future. Hypocritical Double Standards for which US even have no support at home among the fast vanishing middle class, IS the main cause for current destabilization of world order, growth of Islamic Nationalism, hate of US and declining of US own economy we all watch in disbelief. Once upon a time US stood for individual freedom and privacy. The system took pride in developing strong middle class. Today US government spy on their own citizens, people chock in about $60,000 per capita consumer debt and fear their own government, while they watch the dollar sinks like a rock in the ocean and their standard along with it. Ultimately, with sharply declining dollar value and $ 9.3 Trillion Debt, US knows her power will begin to diminish, so they are making last effort grab policy their priority, before the Empire’s faith is sealed. It’s a pity! For more information on current state of US economy, visit official US www.gao.gov web site.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Loyd Eskildson — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:14:41 GMT

Why is the U.S. encouraging (implicit or explicit) problems elsewhere, especially in areas that are not critical to our success? Let's bring most of our troops and Dept. of State employees home!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Martin Gray, Miami, Florida — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:17:40 GMT

Ignoring a 1,000 years of Balkan history, the outcome of two world wars, the deep feelings of the Serbian people and the long standing threat by Russia to use military force to support the Serbs could be called the most significant miscalculation of the 21st century bringing Europe to the brink of war. One might ask how the United States and the European Union missed the point completely and deliberately set up a confrontation with the Serbs and the Russians. Does anyone with an ounce of common sense or any insight into the history of the Balkans and the emotional ties the Serbian people feel towards Kosovo doubt that the "moderates" in Serbia will be swept away in this nationalist tide or that the Russians will go toe to toe with NATO and the EU if more Western troops are sent to Kosovo under any guise. The Russians and the Serbs believe with a strong degree of support from other European countries that the actions taken by the Kosovars and supported in the West are provocative and an absolute violation of international law. As such, they feel free to act with "brute force" to match what they perceive as an illegal power play by the West. Our actions, and the threats by Secretary Burns, are do nothing to calm this very dangerous situation.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Robert, Oakdale, California — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:18:02 GMT

I recall as a young Marine when the Berlin wall came down. Two intelligence officers in the room adjacent mine argued about whether the collapse was a deep Russian ruse. I knocked on their door and sat in on the conversation. I now believe the elder Marine, a Captain, was correct: The Russians simply needed time to recover financially, then move out again.
I wonder, are there prophecies from the Christians about a war?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Adrian, El paso, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:19:46 GMT

Blah blah blah. Overexagerate why dont you. Whats Russia going to do, not sell it gas. Please/ serbia tried to exterminate the country, and now the overwhelming majority of kosovo does not want to be a part of that country. That sounds like a Democracy to me.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Alex G, NYC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:20:06 GMT

Our precipitous recognition of Kosovo independence will be another in the litany of foreign-policy disasters that Bush bequeaths to future presidents. He continues with his messianic, infantile dream of planting democracy everywhere, and damn the realities of Afghanistan, Iraq, Russia, etc. The fact is that Kosovo is a mafia state that has adopted democratic rhetoric simply to bewitch Bush the Fool. These "democrats" now have legal license to do what they have done extra-legally: oppress and ethnically cleanse the 200,000 Serbs still living in their territory. If Bush were truly interested in democracy, at the least we could have insisted on a carve-out of the largely Serbian enclave that borders on Serbia proper. Nothing good will come of this, and in the bargain we've given more ammunition to the Russian revanchists pushing their country back into its traditionally hostile posture toward the west.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tom, Gaithersburg — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:20:08 GMT

I was in Belgrade on Friday, February 15 through Monday, February 18. Witnessed the signing of the Kosovo independence on Serbian television from the apartment I was staying in. On Saturday the 16th I stood on the fringe of a very peaceful demonstration in front of the French Embassy at the end of Knez Mihaila Street. I have been traveling to Serbia every two months for the past 18 months and the sights we are seeing on the news are horrifying but the violence is also being carried out by an extreme minority of Serbians. The people are warm, friendly, caring, and they want the same out of life that all American's want - freedom. Believe me, the Serbs don't understand the university shootings here at NIU or Virgina Tech anymore than we understand what is going on in their country.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eric, Chicago, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:21:06 GMT

Nothing is going to happen. This is just an temporary artificial journalistic hype, now that Iraq seems to get quieter and not too "hot" to talk about or write about. Selling news starts with first "creating news", just like this one. Serbian propaganda about their "love" for Kosovo comes from nothing else but the immense underground richness of that particular now--independent-country. We are talking here about billions of tons of coal, aluminum, iron and gold. Yes, the world GOLD must wake up those who were so far sleeping. There is nothing unusual going on over there, just straight business! Whatever "side dishes" you see or hear on "news" is just smoke created to divert the attention from the real issue, remember: GOLD!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George, San Jose, Ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:22:12 GMT

If anyone is a bully, it's the Usa ! how come we meddle in everyone's else's business ? Greed, that's why ! So what do you expect ? When other nations notice how Greedy we are ?
I say get out of everyone's business and concentrate on the problemds we have here at home !

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tim, Moravia, New York — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:25:07 GMT

Serbia and the independence-minded extremist touched off World War 1 - which led to World War 2 - which led to the Cold War. I don't understand why Kosovo's independence claim is more important to America and the West than good relations with a nuclear-armed Russia. This is beyond me.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

michael, tulsa Oklahoma — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:25:35 GMT

The US is once again in the middle of every one esles business. Once again we should be focusing on our own mess in our our country. What would we do if part of our own country wanted to succeed from the US and the world backed the succession. Would we just stand by and let it happen while another country established a military presence in lets say Florida or Texas.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Irwin, Thousand Oaks, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:29:44 GMT

Although I haven't decided on this issue, as I see the slippery slope here, one roader issue is that the West thought this was an unipolar world now and that it can do what it wants, as in Iraq/Afghanistan. Maybe there's only one 'real' superpower, but the rest of the world is not going to roll over and play dead. And I say good! I'm getting tired of the U.S. and its lackeys thinking they're going to run the world! The policy of Mutually Assured Destruction of the Cold War helped to reduce the number of wars, by making the U.S. think twice about aggression.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Fred, Dallas, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:29:58 GMT

This disaster is nothing compared to the real and natural disasters the US will be going through. If the US does elect a muslim president (Obama) he will become a full blown muslim while in office. This nation will be caught in a stranglehold between congress and the state that will be something out of a movie.

You will see the disaster that this anti-christ will bring because his claws will not be revealed until he gets into office. But of course this was the first Pale Horse where the media (Pale Horse that Obama was riding into the white house) will be supressed for writing against him but it will be too late.

Fear not for yourselfs but for your children cause you folks voted for him. The anti-christ is amongst us.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

C. Highland Falls, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:30:31 GMT

I have some experience in the region, knowing the nature of the groups, I am not surprised that the Kosovars and Serbians have brought the U.S., NATO and Russia head to head over the issue of National Sovernty. The implications of the history of the region to the people of Serbia is as important as the Alamo is to Texas. But hey I'm not a policy wonk and some members of the State department as well as the President's people and Congress are at fault for this new tar baby being born.

Get ready for the next set of Balkan wars.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Marko in Canada — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:30:54 GMT

pat you only see what you want to see. I dont blame you but I do blame your government because that is how they want it. I will say you should be smart enough to know there is more to a story than one side. Or is that only available to americans. Remember this when you come to bury Serbia the garbage that you are protecting helped fund and partake in 9-11.KLA terrorists!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Doe, Seattle, Washington — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:31:40 GMT

A well-reasoned analysis. What it misses, is that US policy in the Balkans is based on a Cold War mentality, which is miraculously still alive in DC. Russia is bad, and every potential ally is bad too and all those that could be allies should be destroyed. Saudi Arabia and Turkey are allies meanwhile. One only needs to stop over in Moscow, which resembles Paris and New York, before going to Riyadh, a modern version of the Middle Ages, to realize how delusional US foreign policy has become. Finally, the great policy-makers in DC do not understand that Kosovo is not Bosnia or Montenegro in Serbian minds. It is more like Jerusalem. Did these people ever take history in high school or was it an AP that they could not get into? What a joke.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Martin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:35:40 GMT

You have to think cold war all over again. If you were a suspicious sort, you would think, what would a world leader do to help the military complex out if he or she was on their way out of office? 100 billion dollars in weaponry to the middle east, two wars going on in asia,and yet another hot spot for NATO(Serbia).

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim, Los Angeles — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:37:56 GMT

To Pat:

And the United States is not a bully?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Thomas, St. Paul, MN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:41:55 GMT

If after reading Pat from Philly's response, anyone is interested in an alternate take, try going here:

http://www.whatswrongwiththeworld.net/

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jake, North Carolina — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:43:46 GMT

Pat from Phily, I agree with you except the part where you say "if they want war, we will bury them once again." Can our nation really handle another war, I don't think so, and especially with a nation like Russia. This whole war talk has to stop now. I am serving in Iraq right now, and war is horrible. I believe in what I am doing, but war itself is horrible. I hate hearing people say let's go to war, who cares. War means death and suffering, and its horrible and unnecessary. Let's solve this problem diplomatically, yes it might take awhile but at least lives will not be lost.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Fran, Washington DC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:49:05 GMT

I want to know why is the threat of physical combat the only solution? Why can't each party compromise, acquiesce; section the country; do whatever it takes to end violence in the area in which they live. If you use the same tactics that you have always used then nothing changes, evolution doesnt occur. And isnt that what everyone wants in that area. Why arent the powers that be offering that advice, the knowledge, selling that to those people instead more death, more crumbling infrastructure, more children lost, more parents lost, more families in crisis.
Why dont the powers that be offer these people suggestions that they will accept or acquiesce to
that will lead these people to a future.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:50:35 GMT

The problem is this: too many in America only understand the jingoistic nonsense that its current politicians bandy about as fact. Here's a fact: America likes to believe that everyone on this planet wants to be like us. T'aint so folks. We tolertate good Communists in China because without them WalMart would be empty. If we were pricipled we would do what we do to Cuba but our poltical policies are hypocritcal hogwash and everyone knows it. Not to put to fine a point on it, recognizing Kosovo in the manner that America and SOME European Union countries have will cause make many innocents pay a very high price. Its so easy for Americans in their comfortable homes to to this.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George, Sydney, Australia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:51:47 GMT

I can't understand why this whole thing was rushed so quickly by the EU and The US, they didn't even try to make sure that simple things like: the rights of women, drug trade, human traffiking, and protecting and restoring UNESCO world heritage sites, and last but not least repatriate all the non-albanians who were thrown out of Kosovo during the 90's. I think if it was so important to make Kosovo an independant state because of the violence of the past, they should have included the all minorities in the mix as well, allowing there to be resentatives for each ethnic group in Kosovo, and work on integration. At the moment Kosovo is very homogenous, there needs to be more multiculturalism. I don't think Americans would ever allow Kosovo to return to the Serbs, since they now is this 'huge' millitary complex there, called Bondsteel, and I imagine the first things Serbs would do is say "get out".

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

L. S sturgeon bay WI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:54:52 GMT

If someone doesn't stop the madness that is war we may soon experience some terrible things in the near future.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

aferdita — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:58:11 GMT

did everyone know that half of serbia was kosovars land but serbia took it, but not anymore because kosova is now indenpendence, ha ha ha to serbia.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mark Lucaj, Detroit, MI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:58:52 GMT

I find it hilarious that Serbia considers Kosova the birthplace of their identity even though their identity was born fighting against Turks on ALBANIAN land, alongside ALBANIANS. Kosova is Dardania, Dardania is Illyria, Illyria is Albania.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ray, Seattle, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:59:27 GMT

Unfortunately, this shows once again how our (US) diplomats skipped the (shallow) history classes. For those interested in more reading start with the battle of Kosovo in 1389. That way you can make an educated comment.

How would you people feel if, let's say, Texas were to secede and eventually join Mexico?

Yep, we just made friends with another nation, haven't we?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Shawnee — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:00:24 GMT

We are the last ones to judge someones elses internal use of brute force. we are at war and gladly using brute force

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Javed helali, Pflugerville, Tx 78660 — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:01:48 GMT

How about Independence for Kashmir in the south asian sub-continent? They deserve it as much as any other people.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Laurie, Canton, Oh — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:05:58 GMT

It is ridiculous behavior on the part of the Serbs to burn the US Embassy. They are still angry about the Clinton ordered bombing of Belgrade. Kosovo deserves to be free--both politically and religiously. Make no mistake, Russia is overstepping its boundaries with regard to the United Nations and I feel another civil war is at stake in the Balkan region.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Aleksandar, Belgrade, Serbia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:08:54 GMT

Dear Pat, from Philadelphia: Russia and Serbia have never invaded other countries. All their wars were self-defensive. It seems to me, young Western countries (or rather, economic conglomerates) will never learn to respect old, peaceful nations and their religious and cultural needs... What happened on 17 February 2008 is the end of the world order as we know it, and possibly, the beginning of WW3 (which I hope, and believe, to be final). As you may know, the previous two World Wars were initiated by the newly united German tribes, who thus proved their barbaric mentality and genuine inability to grow into mature nation. Now, US and EU are sponsoring genocidal, violent movements all over the world. After NATO bombing of Kosovo, in 1999, over 200,000 Serbs were expelled from their territories (!), while, at the same time, the number of ethnic Albanians significantly increased!? The Albanians mostly rely on drug business. So, it truly is sad to watch all those Western citizens being blinded by their comfort, uninterested in politics and decisions made by their governments. They shouldn't "pay the price", but it is their irresponsibility which leads them to that situation. Russia and US have never been in direct military conflict, this "battle" is yet to happen, and I predict it will happen in the next 4-5 years. Unfortunately for the US, the world's oldest and biggest nations, such as China and India, will certainly back up Russia in this conflict. My point is: stick to your own land and resources! No one threatened the Germans, or Americans... Their existence was not endangered in any way... Yet, they involve and attack independant countries. I mean, it's bad for them.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Kris, NYC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:10:35 GMT

It is funny how Pat, Philadephia is pointing to Russia as a bully while the US is crusading aroung the world. Big time Bully.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

ARTAN PRIZREN REPUBLIC OF KOSOVA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:10:44 GMT

USAAAAAAAAAAA

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George, Oregon — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:13:45 GMT

Pathetic! This article is heavily biased against the West and the United States. Who cares what Russia is saying, let them go against the West and the United States! Let's face it Putin is following footsteps of dictators, in time he must be stopped, i say why not now? Too much time in Moscow has brainwashed Jim Maceda to spread propaganda and one sided views like this, this article might as well been written by a Russian or Serbian Nationalist who favors communism and is anti-West and anti-Democracy.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Pete Toronto — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:14:12 GMT

I think that Moscow will likely come out to the world stage as a super power once again. US ambasador to UN critisized Belgrade for a few broken windows and a lilte bit of fire in one building, said that Belgrade is breaking the international law! US is breaking the law by taking a quarter of a country and noone seems to be bothered by that fact. Russia will not let go of this situation as easly as US thinks it will.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike T. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:27:56 GMT

Courage is making the right choices and standing behind them. Liberty has never been a free proposition. Sometimes when standing up to a bully, one has to fight. This isn't the most attractive option, obviously, but the correct one.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John S. Ursic, Buenos Aires, Agentina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:42:06 GMT

If the west, (primarily US's Bush) wants to "pacify" or gain some pityful crumbles of appreciation from the arab-islamic world, this is the way to go; give Kosovo to the islam.
Or are afraid to give up on Irak and or Afganistan?

Islam is already entrenched in Europe with Albania, and Turkey in land stolen/accupied by the latter from Grece, way back when. Remember Konstantinople, now Istambul, ???
Beware, Great Britain, France and Germany, you are already begining to be overwelmed by the early legal and now large ilegal inmigration from moslem countries. They are growing in your countries at an alarming birthrate in your own backyards.
How many Kosovos are you willing to give up before being chocked up at your own home?????

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Paula, Long Island — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:44:42 GMT

Serbia is the bane of this world's existence and has another thing coming to them if they really think that getting Russia to bully the world will make everybody back off.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Roman Kultyshev — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:49:25 GMT

You must be kidding me, Pat from Phily...Who has military bases all around the world? Which country's military is currently occupying Iraq where thousands of people were killed for the sake of "democracy"? Whose soldiers are currently all over Japan (despite the fact that the World War II has been over for more than half a century) and on a regular basis take a fancy to raping 12 year-old girls in Okinawa? Do you have a definite proof that Russia is behind the Litvinenko assasination in London? And while you at it, can you remind me when did you bury us exactly? 'Cause I can't recall...
Good article, but fails to mention a fact that Rogozin is nowhere near to making important decisions in Russian politics...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Adam, El Paso, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:49:35 GMT

Well said, Pat. But I must wonder, how will the rest of the world think of us if we were to rage yet another war on another's behalf?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Lou, Dunkirk, New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:51:37 GMT

The re-awakening of the Bear. Russia. I think the end of times is closer at hand.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mark, Houston, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:51:56 GMT

Russia is only defending their backyard. We as usual, are sticking our nose where it doesn't belong. Sad day when we back the leader of a terrorist organization (Thaci / KLA - admitted to be a terrorist organization by the US State Department in more sane times) over a country trying to follow international law. Yet another foreign policy mistake. Who is next to declare independence? Palestine? Serbs in Bosnia? Parts of the American Southwest (in the future)?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Observing — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:53:55 GMT

There are pros and cons to Kosovo's indepdence. It is not as cut and dry as some in the U.S. seem to think. Serbia has legitimate claims to Kosovo. The problem is that they have a bad trackrecord with regards to the Albanian population of Kosovo so it hard to trust that they will treat the Albanians properly. Now, after indepedence, the opposite is true in that Albanians might drive out the Serbs through slow pressuing. Of course, Serbs have also suffered from persecution in Kosovo too. That is why their numbers as a percentage of the population have declined so drastically.

The biggest problem is to prevent the Kosovo Liberation Army or similar groups from fighting with Serb forces again. In that since indepedence is good, however there is a high price to pay when a country loses a vital region home to some of its people.

This is NOT a simple case of democracy versus autocracy/oligarchy or freedom versus tyranny.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

dimmy — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:54:06 GMT

L’shana ha’ba-ah b’Yerushalayim.' 'Next year in Jerusalem.'
Jews dreamt to return to promise land for 2000 years.Serbs will dream and return too.Our history teach us that and we have a long history of struggle against empires.
We will never forget cradle of our national soul
Next year in Kosovo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

E. Bacus - Rockville Md — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:56:49 GMT

After the cold war was over, we have wiped our a-- with the ABM treaty we signed with the Russians under some lame pretext of North Korea, we have pulled former Soviet States into the NATO alliance, constasntly closing the grip around Russia.

We bomb whomever doesnt agree with us like we did to Yugoeslavia. We have destroyed Iraq under a pretense of WMD's and killed hundreds of innocent people under the excuse of colateral damage just to secure their oil.

Now, not only we want to put an ABM system in Poland (to make sure we totally neutralize Russia's missiles and can bomb them at will in the future) but we go in and support the breakawy of little republics by using the divide and conquer politics (one little country takes less bombs to subdue than a larger country and its cheaper!) and we are surprised of Russia's reaction and of China's build up?

Bush has taken us into another arms race and I would not be surprised that he and his advisers are taking us into the path of another World War; after all, wars start due to miscalculations.

Russia is the bully? Fess up Pat from Philadelphia!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

C Jencks, San Diego, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:57:04 GMT

Whether the author of this piece wants to paint Serbia as a longtime U.S. ally or not (it's really not, except by accident) - the fact of the matter is that the Srebian-Russian alliance was a major factor in the chain of events that started the first World War. As were the extraterritorial ambitions of Serbian nationalists.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike Contreras, Manila, Philippines — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:57:44 GMT

Mr. Pat their don't know what he is talking about.The self proclaimed pathetic international police (U.S) always see to it that there is conflict anywhere in the world, see what happened in iraq a sovereign country was invaded by hitler(bush)because of weapons of mass destruction which doesn't even exist shame on you.How many lives did the US took by creating numerous wars, why don't you bring the war to your homeland so as to experience the madness of it.Kosovo is Serbia because its part of their history and origin of Serbia civilization.I remember Hitler took Czechoslovakia by decisions of the few including british prime minister chamberlain and history is repeating itself right now.Im happy that Russia is recovering itself because the world should have a check-in balance and there should be no monopoly of power because the fourth Reich and its poodle countries will just decide directly which country/ies they will attack if not on their side.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Steve , Manhattan Beach , CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:02:23 GMT

George Bush and the US are dead wrong about Kosova. How would Americans feel if the Mexicans in San Diego declared themselves an independant country. The Albanians are immigrants to Kosovo and Serbia and they no right to claim independance. George Bush is looking for another fight because he is too
incompetant to do anything else. America should not get involved in the Balkans. If the Serbians want to fight the Albanians in Kosovo it is non of our busines
we are not the world's policemen and most Americans do not want to be the worlds policemen. Let the Europeans, the Arabs and the Israelis solve all their problems without any interference from the US. It does nothing for the American citizen and it makes the defense contractors rich.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John S. Ursic, Buenos Aires, Agentina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:02:36 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Russian in Chicago — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:04:23 GMT

Pat(Philadelphia) is right Russia is, was, will be a bully - the question is why Bush decided to stand up to it right now. Is he done searching for Putin’s soul? Is it worth it? Slavic nationalism and xenophobia is not to be toyed with. There is a reason why Russian word "pogrom" used in at least 5 different languages without translation. Comparison to Jerusalem is right on the money and we all know how European/US politics worked out there. Kosovo just gives another excuse to Russian oil mafia to point finger to the West.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Marina, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:04:29 GMT

Russia does not deserve to be called a bully. The media has twisted truths and ingrained into your heads to think that way for years. If anyone is the bully here, it's America. You speak of freedom and independence for Kosovo, but in turn you limit the freedom of other nations with your idea of collective security. How dare you limit the freedom of choice of other nations while promoting your ideas and beliefs? How dare you assume you know what's right for people of other cultures? It's not right to be so disrespectful of people outside your borders. It will come back to haunt you.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John S. Ursic, Buenos Aires, Argentina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:10:51 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jdenishuggard/west vancouver/bc/canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:11:12 GMT

fools rush in/we are base3d in western canada/thisis thenew home of the largest persian community-outside of iran/russia would not use""brute force""they havelost all eastern europeon countries-as allies-all these countries have joined NATO/there are 600million in europe-now-russia wouldnt stand a chance-a hugegroup of russian wealthy families are based in ontario-they would standwith the west-the militant arabs haveno interes in this mess/their focus is on middle east/china ishaving huge growing pains/not interested/the usadebt issueis being financed by japan/theswiss/germany/scandahovia[pun]russia loves bullying/their gnp isstill minimal/extortion is still big with them/during thefall of soviet union/their banks were devastated/on purpose/keep them poor/they,ll behave/their jets are 25 yearsold/ineffective.however/they are beating thewest in energy programs/they are partnerswith usa in iraq/their army wasdispersed long ago/their kbg moved to montreal/quebec/they like the good life!!!!!!!!!!/jdenishuggard

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jason Gateas, Pasadena Ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:19:36 GMT

If you really understand the history of this area and the people, on both sides, then you will know that the war clouds are again building in Europe. This could be a flashpoint to another great war, as seen in the 20th Century, twice...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ben, Mission Viejo, California — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:25:09 GMT

The United States is pandering to the muslim nations of the world by recognizing an muslim republic in Europe, trying to look good at the expense of Serbia. Just because an ethnic minority takes over an area doesn't make it "theirs" We in America should take note..this could be something that will come to haunt us in our own backyard.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Zoran, Tampa, FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:26:39 GMT

This about the best short comment about Kosovo crisis one can find in media these days. Great job Mr.Maceda! Things about Kosovo are not black and white as many could think. As a Serbo-American living in Florida, I am ashamed of all the burning, looting and violence from yesterday. But, one has to understand that it was just a result of wrongful recognition of so called independent Kosovo. To begin with, this was no act of independence but act of separatism. For years and years, Kosovo Albanians are trying to detach south part of Serbia and join it to Albania. With the strong support of the US and other Western countries that process has been completed. So called Kosovo declared independence from one county (Serbia) by waiving flags of another country (Albania). What kind of independence we are talking about here?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Astrochronic — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:26:41 GMT

This excerpt plainly indicates the bias of the author: "Russian analysts explain that the West – especially the United States – has fallen victim to a miscalculation which some equate to being as grave as the ill-advised invasion of Iraq."

There is no consensus that the invasion of Iraq was ill advised. History has not been settled and the current situation is looking favorable. What was ill advised was our post invasion strategy on the ground. But the simple fact is that Iraq plays an integral and central role in the confrontation of radical extremism. Anyone who cannot see that, is staggeringly ignorant and should not be considered a journalist. Affording the people of oppressed nations subjugated under fascist totalitarian Theocracies, self determination and liberty is not only a noble and righteous endeavor, it is the only way to mitigate the extremism and terrorist recruitment in the region.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

kristina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:27:24 GMT

This is unbelievable. America is giving Serbian Holy Land to the Muslims living in KosovO who are linked to Al-qaeda. Then why are our boys in Iraq?? There are losing their lives to a lie.

SHAME ON AMERICA

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

john, Pueblo,CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:28:34 GMT

this is what the rooskies get for screwing us on the iran thing and the oil pipelines through eastern europe as well as their overflights of our ships and in alaska. they no longer have the means to be anything but car bombers and instigators towards us and western europe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

john — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:41:16 GMT

since the states have become so generous
why not get both sides hapy by giving the albanians
one of your one states lets say texas ore have the albanians chose their one state thet would exilirate them, americans would be seen in the muslim world as their protectors hence the muslims would stop ataking

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Murat — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:43:23 GMT

There are dogs in every country. It's just that some dogs bark to intimidate others. Other dogs wait to attack and bite when needed. The Russians tend to bark, while we're capable of biting back.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Troy, Austin, Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:43:48 GMT

The ethnic Albanians in Kosovo deserve their freedom, but they do not have the right to steal Kosovo from Serbia. Just think if a large number of Mexican immigrants moved to Delaware and decided to leave the Union. I promise you that the US would not allow it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Doug, Minnesota. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:46:33 GMT

What would America do if say... The southeastern states declared their independence from the United States?

Oh yea.. I think something like that happened once... We went to war with ourselves.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Nazmije Emini Clifton NJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 01:51:46 GMT

Russian is a Bully, they are terrosits just like Serbians. Don't they know what Serbians did to kosovo, killing millions of children even unborn. Kosovo deserved 100% the independence.Russians need to experience what kosovo went through like be buries alive then they'll recognize kosovo....

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Filip — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:00:20 GMT

As much as many may believe that Russia is a bully, in this case it has every right to act. It is not doing it for the Serbs but for its own purposes. If Kosovo is independent that means that Russia's remaining states can declare independence.

And on a further note in response to Pat the U.S. is no longer the powerhouse everyone seems to believe it is, I do not think it can bury anyone with it s current economic situation and its over used military. Relying on its past perceived power also makes it a bully no?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Blerta, New MIlford NJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:00:26 GMT

While I see the Serbian point of view, I do not see the Kosovar one. Does mr. Maceda know why they had to declare independence in the first place?
I respect the US for doing the right thing and exercising its superpower right correctly this time. Protecting freedom is a very important reason to stand up for.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ken Rothey — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:01:28 GMT

While U.N. troops were still stationed in that area of the world now identified as Kosovo, the majority of its people declared independance. Think about that! The U.S.A. immediately recognized it as a country, while Russia, the remnant of a once powerful dictatorial empire threatened military force. Does that refresh your memory of Hungary? Think about that! Shall freedom surrender to terrorists? "War has no horror more comparable in its effects upon national character than a craven submission to manifest wrong, the postponement of moral to material interests"!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

PAW, Oakland, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:06:27 GMT

This whole episode smells like a Putin KGB operation.
The Serbians and Russians are collaborators in a renewed effort to cleanse Kosovo of what they consider to be undesirable elements.
In this Putin & Stalin (Putin's hero) are indeed one.
The greatest threat to peace and stability in the world today.
In this America & the Muslims of Kosovo stand as one against the evildoers of Serbia and their Russian masters.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Shane, Arizona — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:15:30 GMT

only one word comes to mind when I think of all the possibilities that could occur from this newly established country independence that is welcomed and recognized by the West and very strongly opposed by the East which was long held as a sort of absolute dividing zone of Russian versus Western ideologies. "SCARY"!!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Steve, Washington, DC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:18:48 GMT

Kosovo is part os Serbia under international law. There is a miriad of small minorities allover Europe which would rip small pieces of their host countries and be "independent" tomorrow. It is a huge mistake for West and the US to be the judge of 1000 year conflicts and decide who's right or wrong. Especially with Kosovo, where Serbs have been wiped out only in recent history.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George Draklellis, Allentown, Pa. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:29:52 GMT

If the growing, South American imigrant population in California, elects politicians of South American descent who one day choose to declare independance from the United States, I guess Washington would be all for it... U.S. foriegn policy is the reason that there are wars in all corners of the globe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

frank — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:34:59 GMT

I'm sorry to say this but our government is criminally corrupt and needs to be stopped ASAP before we start ww3

Learn about it all at infowars.com

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dan Wrightsville,Pa. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:38:11 GMT

I seem to remember that a certain U.S. state wanted to withdraw from the Union a few years ago and it was threatened by the government if it tried to do so.
Remember the Republic of Texas movement?
If they had been allowed to withdraw from the Union they would be better-off today without all that "Patriot Act" garbage destroying their rights and freedoms.
But then I guess double-standards are the Hallmark of Western politics.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Azra Jakupovic, Chicago IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:38:34 GMT

neither Serbia nor Russia will ever accept an independent state in Europe that is mostly compromised of Muslims. its not a question of borders, its a question of pride, and national and ethnic conflict. this is Serbia still refusing to admit defeat in the battle of Kosovo in 1389. its as simple as that.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Karen — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:40:11 GMT

Pat I think you are right about Russians in general. However, I think this is a different issue because
this has a direct impact on their country. Accepting Kosovo as an independent country is not anymore a Serbian internal problem or a country specific issue. This sets a precedent and there are about 68 other Kosovos around the world waiting in the line to be recognized as independent states. But we will see what will happen. Hopefully, no wars, but I doubt it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ludmila, Alexandia, Va — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:46:19 GMT

What an excellent report! This balanced and objective assessment of the Kosovo problem, created by the West, is refreshingly different from the usual biased, one-sided treatment in the American press.
Thank you, Mr. Maceda.
Was this report on the NBC Nightly News?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tom Stein — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:47:51 GMT

I think that it is time for the United States to permanently end all relations with Russia. There is absolutely nothing good for any Americans to say about anything about the Russians. They've always been the most arrogant people on the planet, and furthermore, I hate Russia, and I hate the Russians! The U.S. has absolutely no respect for Russia, and vice versa. If we can go at least 50 years without any trade with Cuba, we can go at least 50 years without any trade with Russia, as well.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sergio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:52:11 GMT

I believe that if Russia uses military force in that area, it will be the beginning of World War III and as most of us know,eventually the end of the world.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike , Lutz Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:52:47 GMT

Get over it. The Russians need to come to grips that what we have here are two incompatible groups of people, the horrible genocide from the past speaks to itself. They need to reconcile with the greater need to have peace in that region, to the interests of all. Personally, I would wish people in that region, would learn to get along, come to grips with other and replace passions for conflict with each other. All it takes is a little reversal of thought to drive this much more fruitful conclusions. Only through more unifications, will these countries become strong. This return to nationalism is just another return to some of the past idiocies. So let them separate, and forget about t. You dont like each other anyhow! Do me a favor, please dont draw more nations into war like you did in WW1, WW2 and all the other conflicts since then. Sureley, by now they realize that one mans victims might have friends.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Hugh Waker — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 02:57:01 GMT

Why can't the US or Russia mind their own business for once at least???

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bruce, Denver CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:00:07 GMT

Putin is a KGB thug. But Europe will cave in when he cuts off their fuel supplies. And we are pretty much fully extended with our military missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Kosovars may have to rescind their declaration of independence or fight the Serbs and Russians without NATO help. I don't see a new JFK on the horizon for US.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sergio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:02:20 GMT

If Russians don't militarily intervene this time in that area, they will surely remember this incident and use this against the west later in the future. This will only give them more amunition or justfication.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

bruno aubut — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:03:22 GMT

do they realy care about the cosovans or are they (the west)using it as a pasifier for the muslim world and a low blow to the serb and russian .also now they say the muslim are 90%,does a population influx in recent years justify taking claim to land or country
maybee this is why the catholic priest told my french
grandma 18 kids job well done??

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ron Peterman, Pauma Valley, Ca. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:09:16 GMT

It seems that we disregard the opinions and vast experiences, history etc of people closely involved in the politics of far flung nations. I can assure you that our politicians are not qualified to make these decisions for us or the populice involved. Are we recognizing a new terrorist state, I assure you that it will be soon. Would we allow Texas to leave the Union? Texas has more right to do so than Kosovo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Booba Kastorsky, Boston, MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:12:21 GMT

I'm a Russian American, not a Serb.
But let me tell you: I'm as angry as Serbs!
I learned at school about Kosovo, about Serb's battles against Turks, about how Turks treated Christians like animals, about the war where Russians came to Balkan and ended Osman Empire occupation.
The author is right: Kosovo is a craddle of not only Serb culture, but also Slavic culture and Christianity!
And let me assure you: neither Serbs nor Russians will ever accept Kosovo's "independence"!
"Independent" Kosovo is a time bomb that will burst sooner or later, and NATO with all its power won't be able to stop it.
Does Kosovo "independence" worth new possible Cold War???

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

ryan, ypsilanti, Michigan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:13:25 GMT

Russia can talk alot because the US is tied up in the Middle East. If the US cna manage to extricate itself from iraq, we can deal with Russia appropriately.

I also hope that Russia's recent belligerence is a wake up call for the Europeans. They have been ensconced in a coccoon of safety for 60 years. Now that we are tied up elsewhere they will have to be an equal partner with us in terms of military force in Europe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Johnson, Omaha NE — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:16:37 GMT

If they want to go to war they can, However citing Kosovo as the reason is very misleading and unfair. Serbia has lost Kosovo in 1999, they wanted to play, they played and they lost, and in fair man's land you cannot itch to play, want to bet big, lose big, but when time comes to give up what you were bidding, decide not to do so. That is a NO NO. It's like as if they forgot that it was their heartland and all of the sudden they read history and learned it, so now they want it back. It does not sound like a very fair and smart story. "Happy Independance Kosovo", you earned it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Rudy D Franklin, Beijing - China — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:18:38 GMT

EU is growing stronger and stronger. Control over NATO will either be in hands of Europeans or it will be totally dissolved.

America need part of Europe to continue control over World's "democracy" and for OWN military base in heart of future Europe.

Through history, Albanians (Illyrians) would make allay with stronger and powerful enemies, such as Romans, Turks, Russians, Chinese.

Americas help was welcomed and Albanians, in return, would open theirs borders.

Consequences? Not to worry. Future will TELL!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Srbo-American — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:19:04 GMT

I was born in Serbia but i have lived here in the U.S. for the past 10 years.I just want to say I love America and the American people that live here I proudly say that my 2 sons are Americans. What i want to say is people don;t really understand what Kosovo is here . Kosovo is a part of Serbia just like Florida is a part of U.S. Kosovo has these beautiful Christian churches that are decorated in solid gold .In Kosovo there are many graves of the Serbian kings and queens that are over 600 years old. This is where Serbians were born.Kosovo is their hart and their soul. For the past few decades muslims from Albenia were coming into Kosovo since Kosovo and Albenia share borders.Beacase most Albenians are muslims they don't like Serbs who are Christians.I have pictures of Albenians burning Serbian churches that are as i said over 600 years old. Albenian are trying to destroy Serbian history. Giving Kosovo to Albenians is like giving Miami to spanish people because they are majority in Miami . Would Bush agree to give Florida it's independence in few decades when Spenish people become majority of the entire stateand ask for it ? I don;t think he would agreee with it. What Serbian people are mad about is that U.S. is helping Albenian muslims that are trying to destroy Christian people and take over their own land. Serbians are mad becuase Bush decided on his own to give someone elses land away. How can this be ? It is sad to see the news and the people in Belgrade destroying U.S. property because i know Serbians and this is not who they are. I talked to my mother who lives in Serbia as i wanted to get some feedback from her. She said that people are protesting on the streets and singing patriotic songs they do not want to give their country land to someone else. She told me some people used this situation to cause problems they were drunk and druged they try to use protets on the streets to get something out of it for themselves. This is not who Serbians are. In every country you have bunch of idiots who try to cause problems and this is what they did in Belgrade. Probably 50 -100 of them all drunk . All the other people want to come out and protest in peace and tell the world that this is our land our country how can you take it away from us. I wish people would know more about Kosovo and Serbian history then they would know why Serbs are protesting to giving it up. Kosovo really has a beautiful history beautiful land . I hope that this will end in peace, because I never wish to any war anywhere in the world. I also want to add that the Russians are on the Serbian side because Russians know more then Americans about our history and Albenian history and Russians see that muslims are trying to destroy Christians in Kosovo .I don;t think Russians will let this happen and I hiope U.S. will not let it happen as well. U.S. know because of it;s own problems with muslim terorists and the war in Iraq.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Shawn, OH — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:20:17 GMT

It is these ensuing events like this that so adamantly show we are going to need a strong Commander in Chief, someone who has the background and knowledge of how to lead during critical times. Its going to take the leadership of a proven leader such as John McCain and not the inexperience of Barack Obama. Its certainly not going to be a good moment for OJT (On the Job Training).

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Doe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:22:29 GMT

pat from phily:

are you one of the 19% of the american people that think president Bush is doing a good job?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ron, Portland OR — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:25:13 GMT

The U.S. governments recognition of Kosovo is a monumental example of a flight from common sense and reality. When the Mexicans in California declare their indepedence will the administration recognize them, along with the eurotrash that surely will? Pat, Russia is hardly a bully, they act in their own interest just as the U.S. usually does. When was the last time they invaded a sovreign nation?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:25:21 GMT

What say resulution 1244 UN? Is kosovo Independency legal? Everything what Bush said is a bullshit.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vitaliy Mikshanskiy — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:25:27 GMT

looks to me that we doing the same mistakes like we did in Afghanistan during the war with Russia, helping Osama giving him all support, it's the same one in Kosovo, I think we did not learn from mistakes.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

cleveland ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:28:06 GMT

Hello!
My name is Besart Krasniqi. I am from kosovo. I came to this country in 1999 as a refugee. I was the first refugee to come in cleveland ohio, I still have my Plain Dealer page that i was in the front page. I came to this country as i was forced out off my house to get out of the country, My house was burned. My family was divided into groups some came here some went somewere else,Long story short. I came to this country not because i wanted but i had to and today after most of my people are dead Serbia tries to say that kosovo was their country. I belive that those people that lived there and been there for so long they deserve to be there. I been lisening to the news and when kosovo got independent for some people was happiness for some was sadness and we can seat here and image things in the good way but those people that they lost their family will never have a good image to think about. I am happy for kosovo people, but in the mean time they have to respect serbs. After wat they did yesterday i dont think they will ever find a solution to say sorry to the whole world. Wat i mean is that i been in war and had diffriculties and still today i stay strong and i will allways do to make sure that i can stand up and say thats enough thats it and that came today to say to the serbs. Thank you for reading this and i hope i can just speak live and explain everything wat went on in 1999.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mirek,CT — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:28:14 GMT

West blew it. There are a lot of small nationalities all over the Europe and if we are going to support the idea of independence we should think before we say it. Let’s not forgot for example Germany and let's look at the map before the Second World War. Should we encourage German people to return to the lands which were theirs before they started that war??? How about Basques in Spain-we should tell them to fight for their independence...!! The idea is very humane but politicians should expect grave consequences...Only our soldiers pay the price not them. We should back off and try to implement more reasonable solutions not the ones which hurt us in the long run.
This decision on the highest level should cost us tremendously…..
Why -we are not part of the Europe! We helped them to stop the bloodshed (good idea) but to continue to “stir things’’ it is not the cleverest idea……!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

besart krasniqi cleveland ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:28:37 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Clive Edwards, Toronto,ontario,Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:33:26 GMT

The united states have double standards that translates as democracy. What other country gets in volved all over the world?Aircraft carriers, millitary bases and the works. Americans are deluded into thinking their country is a bastion of freedom and piece.In fact, the United States connived the declaration of Kosovo independence. The Russians should declare that Kosovo is their "backyard" and send massive amount of troops. What can the U.S. do in that case?Nothing. Russia is no small power that the United sattes constantly treaten and invade.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

BASHER SALEM, SAN ANTONIO,TEXAS — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:36:57 GMT

POOR JUSGMENT ON THE SIDE OF us AND UROPIAN UNION, YOU CAN NOT TAKE LAND FROM A SOVERGIN COUNTRY AND RECOGNIZE INDEPENDANCE. WHY THE US HAS NOT RECOGNIZED PALESTINE INDEPENDANCE EVEN THOUGH ONE HUNDRED NATION DID IN THE UN. THIS IS A BLOW TO INTERNATINAL LAW AND THE UN. IT NO LONGER INTERNATIONAL LAW. IT IS US AND UROPE LAW. RUSIA UNDERSTAND THAT IT HAD BEEN UNDRMINDED BY THIS AND WILL NOT LT THIS GO A WAY.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Booba Kastorsky, Boston, MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:44:07 GMT

Pat from Philadelfia said:
"Make no question about it, Russia is a bully, always has been, always will be. They are ones that have recently threatened to point missiles at the Czechs, have orchestrated political assassination in London, shut off energy supplies to Georgia, have declared signed agreements void and are now threatening "brute military force."
Well, well well...
Dr. Hebbels, minister of Propaganda in Nazi German ones said that semi-truth is much more effective than the whole truth.
I'm not sure why you told people semi-truth?
1) Yes, Russia recently threatened to point missiles at the Czechs IF Americans puit their missiles over there!
A little difference, huh? ;)
America is going to put missiles in Chechz "against Iran's rockets" that don't even exists!
Check the map: Checz is even nearer to Moscow then Cuba!
What would America do if Russians had said: "Ok, we want to put our missiles in Mexico to protect Costa-Rica from N. Korean rockets"???
2) "Russia have orchestrated political assassination in London"
Any proof of that?
We watch how police chasing a guy that shot policement before, damaged some cars and put lives of many people in danger. And this guy is called "suspect"! Why? Becuase only court can say "Guilty"!
You can say anything about KGB, but this organization is not stupid! If they wanted to kill him, they would have done it in much more professional way!
Ancient Romans said: look who will benefit from it?
How Russia benefited from assasination of retired spy that was as "dangerous" to Russia as a fly? Did Russia really want that scandal?
3) "shut off energy supplies to Georgia"
Where did you hear about it? On "free independent" CNN? ;)
4) "have declared signed agreements void"
I heard about just one occation: Russia declared Treaty of Convenience Weapons in Europe void recently.
Why?
Firstly, after many attempts to persude US and NATO do not put missiles next to Russian border and after offering ANY other options including sharing Russian bases.
Secondly, the treaty was signed by bith Russia and NATO, but ONLY russia ratified it! And it acted according to this Treaty , BTW,a s good will!
NATO countries refussed to ratify it asking Russia to do some thing that wasn't related to the Treaty.
So, if NATO didn't ratified it why Russia only must comply with it?
BTW, this Threaty limited moving weapons and troops in Europe and required to ask permissions before.
Did NATO ask Russian permissions when it bombed Serbis and moved its troops to Kosovo?

And the last, but not least.
I was in Moscow when September 11 happened.
By the evening of that day American embassy was covered by flowers and burning candles. Crowds were staying around the embassy with signs: "We also were killed in Wolrd Trade Center!"
Putin was the first among other national leadres that called Bush and offerd any support. And it provided it! Russians helped Americans a lot in Afganistan with bases, intelligence, etc. They saved a lot of American lives in Afganistan!
Russia is NOT bully, and Russians is NOT bully!
Thanks God America lost in WWII 100 times less people This is a shame Cold War plague is still alive!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jacob, Miami, Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:47:45 GMT

If the Russians want to talk tough about how they will use their military force if they need to, should also remember that we watched their big daddy, The Soviet Union, crumble to the ground. If they want to start another Cold War, or even World War Three, the United States will once again watch the communist wannabes fail. We are the worlds sole remaining Super Power for a reason and have the right to let other nations be free from authoritorian rule.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Efrim Soltanovich , Centennial , CO. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:48:33 GMT

A. Kosovo is Serbian & allways will remain such.
B. America has never " burried " Russia as the moron in the message above me proclaims . America got it's asses kicked in by Koreans, Vietnamesse , & currently by Iraqie freedom fighters . How in the world could they ever defeat the best fighters in the world-Russians.
C. Why are we on the side of Albanians who are nothing more then a bunch of islamist criminals. Haven't we learned our lesson when we defended Afganistany extremists against Russian army . Now we call the same groups we have supported then Taliban.
D. Finaly . If a milion Polish Americans inside Chicago have decided to annex Chicago from USA , call it Poland republic, & seek independence from US , WHICH IS PRETTY MUCH WHAT IS HAPPENING IN Serbia ..........., would you support this stupidity in the name of freedom . GIVE ME A BREAK !!!!!!!!!
This time the greatest military power in the world , Russian republic stands shoulder to shoulder with it's closest blood brothers the Serbs. So why don't you try this old trick again , why don't you bomb Belgrade again my friend .....only beware of aftermath , because it would BITE.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tim Browning, Zanesville, Ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:48:44 GMT

After spending 22 years in the Army and serving many deployments overseas to lands such as Panama, Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, and Afghanistan, I could really care less about Kosovo's plight for independence. We should wait until we're asked for help, not assume that we know what's best for everybody. All of the "Do-Gooders" in this world should brush up on their history a bit and they might then realize that these countries we're supposedly helping rarely have ever seen peace... for 2000 years religion and dictatorships have been driving the train.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ray, Detroit MI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:49:11 GMT

Putin wants the Russia of old. He recognizes the current economic and military weakness of the U.S.. We are overstretched militarily, suffering economically due to the war and from out-sourcing all of our jobs and technology, and have few friends in the world all thanks to Dubya Bush and Cheney and "friends". Of course Russia is going to flex their muscles...expect the same actions soon from China, and maybe India. Those last two have their boots on our throats as to our economic dependence on them...and we've done that to ourselves with the corporate greed of our CEO's and Board of Directors. We're becoming just like the Russians -breaking from the weight of our leaders and corporations not paying attention to the home fires, and not learning from the past...even as far back as from the time of the Romans.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

georg aguir, Bloomington CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:51:59 GMT

History show up the great mistakes that cost millions of lives and enormous cost when the land is fenced in the name of freedom, but this freedom is not specified in the religious basis rooted in those places, mistakes that nobody wants to look upon because can make them look weakers.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

milan jankovic — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:53:40 GMT

Mr. Maceda's comment: "But the United States also has been a trusted ally to Serbia through two world wars and other difficult times." I'm sure he was thinking about former 'old' Yugoslavia (before Communist Party took over the country) and not Serbia. Does Mr. Maceda remembers the year of 1999? Is that the way of helping somebody? I'm sure Serbia did not deserved that kind of help, after being a European 'gate keeper' (for centuries) against the islam invasion. United States created an islam country (Republic of Bosnia & Herzegovina) in the heart of Europe, and now is trying to 'push' another islamic satelite named Kosovo and all that for the good old OIL that this country needs so badly.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Robert — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 03:56:20 GMT

Kosova's independence is not about USA or Russia. Kosova has 95% Ethnic Albanians with different language and culture from Serbs. Mr. Maceda should learn the history first. I think US made the right choice, better give Kosova what they deserve than send there 200,000 troops.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

eric,nanuet NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:00:01 GMT

Fight with Russia you suggest you must be MAD our military cant even beat the towel heads

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dan Portland, Oregon — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:03:02 GMT

To Pat From Philadelphia,

We never "buried" Russia you typical ignorant American. Russia is still the only country on the globe that can nuke America quickly and completely. You have never travelled much in the world I can tell as only a stupid, ignorant American like yourself would call a still weak country a bully when so many in the world look at America like a bully today. How many Iraqi childern and elderly did the American people kill in Iraq? You are responsible as an American Pat, for killing thousands of Iraqi childern, how do you feel about that? How is that for being a bully?
I have been to Russia three times and was always taken back by how warmly I was treated by the Russian people who are generous, wonderful people indeed. Many of them like Americans unlike so many other nationalities in the world who hate us all because we are American. Americans like you only fuel their fire against us Pat. I have also been to 25 countries in the world and on four continents and lived in another two countries abroad.
Hearing Americans as ignorant as you is shocking and just goes to show how little certain Americans like you know anything about the true workings of the world at large. Putin was the first foreign leader to call Bush after 9/11. We angered them like we have the Serbs and everyone else in the world since 9/11 due to arrogant assess like you and the white trash Texan in the White House who unfortunately are US citizens and make us all look bad with their stupidity, arrogance and false sense of righteousness. Americans like you have the least regard for a human life and everyone knows that in the world now. Between the health care lobby and the gun lobby, filled with murdering basterds, they as Americans both kill about 45,000 Americans per year---so would Stalin be proud of this do you think Pat? This equals almost 500,000 or a half million Americans who died unnecessarily in the past ten years alone due to having no health insurance or from gun misuse---the real weapon of mass destruction that has killed tens of thousands of Americans over the years than any of Saddam's WMD ever did. Also Pat, count 300,000 dead, innocent Iraqi civilians that we indirectly and directly killed and we look like animals ourselves as Americans who have no regard for a human life--either American life or an Iraqi life. Stalin killed his own people and so does the American corporate government establishment like the lobbyists from Corporate America who bribe our useless corporate politicians everyday in America to turn the other way while the health care and gun lobbies kill thousands of us and keep our southern border open to attract cheap, exploitable foreign labor. What about our national security then? The unnecessary loss of an American life then is the same whether at the hands of Islamic terorists or due to the American corporate politicians who allow innocent Americans to die because bribe money from the health care and gun lobbies is more important to them than saving American lives. So Pat, as an American today, humble yourself before God Almighty and take accountability for all of the evil that people like you with your mentality, have allowed our country to get away with in the world you typical All-American, filthy, scumbag. People like you have learned nothing from 9/11 Pat. We must take accountability for the innocent lives we also cause to perish in America and the world as well that are caused by Americans like you. I am a good American and you are a bad American. That simple Pat. Doz va donya!!!

Sincerely,
A Proud American,
Dan

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Don, New Brighton, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:05:05 GMT

I guess some in Washington feel we are not spending enough money on the boogie man wars in Iraq, Afgan, etc., and figure why not waste some more money and servicemen lives over another dumb cause. At this rate, another 10 years or so and the U.S. will be at war with all the countries in the world!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

James Luko, Beijing, China — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:07:32 GMT

While it is true that Serbia, because of its past actions, had lost the "moral" right to Kosovo, legally, on all levels, recognizing an independent Kosovo is contrary to International and European laws, as well as diplomatic norms. The UN agreements that ended the international conflict over Kosovo, as well as EU laws and precedents make a de facto and de jure recognition simply illegal and I'm aghast at the lack of US and European explanations over their recognition of Kosovo. As a former United Nations official who served 12 years in the Former Yugoslavia, as well as the UN War Crimes Tribunal in Kosovo and Belgrade, how can we create legal security structures, such as the War Crimes Tribunal, as an example of modern international rule of law, only to trample over existing laws.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

frank, germantown md — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:08:04 GMT

it's hard to bury russia this time around, pat from philadelphia. maybe you can do it on your own.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eriola, Montreal, Canada. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:10:20 GMT

Russia says that Kosovo shouldn't be getting its independency from Serbia.But how come,they never said anything when the Serbian army killed over 15,000 unarmed and innocent Kosovars,raped 20,000 women, including little girls aged 10-11 years old. Destroyed over 120,000 houses and left homeless
1 million people.It seems to me,that Russia didn't have much to say at the time.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Stew R Augusta, Maine — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:13:07 GMT

I'm glad they burned our embassy. This is a proud moment in American foriegn policy. The Kosovars had the guts to stand up up on thier own with a little help from us and others. Lets all hope the Iraqis are taking note.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Timour, Oklahoma City, OK — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:16:24 GMT

Pat says: "If they want war, we will bury them once again". It seems like, there are forces around the world, who are pushing for another major war. Few profiteer from current wars. And they play dangerous cards of nationalism, patriotism and agression in all possible forms. We are sliding towards another major world war.

Why do billions - and this time billions - have to die for the rest to start thinking that wars do not solve our problems.

This is not a miscalculation. Quite the opposite, it is a well calculated, albeit short sighted, move, which should generate good weapons sales. Destabilization of Europe, even if it is just a perception, will weaken Euro and help out US economy. Unfortunately, as usual, money wins.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dave, Bossier City,La — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:21:51 GMT

Russia invaded every border countrys territorial rights in forming the USSR. If it werent for lack of economy in Russia and the ability to maintain its stronghold on those countrys, they would still be a part of the USSR. Russia has very little credibility on a global scale when it comes to protecting the sovereignty of other nations. Of course their eyes only see mother Russia and its potential military gain with each stand made.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Zahn Hajdini — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:24:53 GMT

Kosovo was never birthplace of Serbia, despite what Serbs claim. Kosovo was annexed by force to former Yugoslavia right after the fall of Turkish Empire in 1912, and since Serbs used ethnic cleansing and genocide to rule the region, which is reach in, coal other minerals. The idea of been a “cradle of Serbia sate “was invented by Milosevich in 1985 when he took over as e leader and plunked Yugoslavia into civil war. Recognizing the independence of Kosovo ends an era of oppression and Serb ethnic cleansing and genocide and it was the right thing to do, the only thing that would bring peace and stability to the Balkans and Europe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Pierre-alain Seya, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:28:52 GMT

The Russians have raised a good point in denouncing the illegality of a unilateral declaration of independence from Kosovo. After all, the 1998 crisis was centered around then president Miosevic's brutal crackdown on ethnic Albanian separatists, and much of the US's rhetoric was then based on the former dicator's carnage. Now that he is gone, one wonders what exactly serves as a legitimate proximate cause for the West's support of Kosovo's independence. This, of course, is beside the raw fact that this rushed mass endorsement might very well prove to be a miscalculation of catastrophic proportions.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Allen, Grants Pass, Oregon — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:34:50 GMT

The big question is whether Russia is merely "saber rattling" as it has done in the past, or actually willing to back up their threats with action. If they are willing to use "brute force", are we, as a country willing and able to open up a new front to fight? Is our military, after 5 years of use and abuse, physically able to fight on this new front?

Our military has shown, from many different angles, that both our equipment and our men and women are worn down and in serious need of rest and replacement. At the same time, Russia has been building a new military force that is beginning to rival the might that it enjoyed before the collapse of the Soviet Union.

If it does hit the fan, would we be able to meet the challenge head on?

Allen

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Brent, Australia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:41:21 GMT

Kosovo is and remains an integral province within the sovereign Republic of Serbia in accordance with The Charter of The United Nations, Security Council Resolution 1244, as well as all relevant international conventions on human rights, the rights of peoples and on the inviolability of internationally recognized borders. Therefore, the recognition of Kosovo as an independent entity violates every established norm of International Law concerned with state creation.
First, customary International Law, for very good reasons, holds that secession from a recognised state can only be granted if it has the consent of the host state, in this case Serbia.
Second, the putative state of Kosovo fails to meet the essential criteria of statehood set out in the Montevideo Convention of 1933. In particular, Kosovo’s present situation of effectively being an international protectorate renders it incapable of satisfying the requirement that a state should be possessed of a government and capacity to enter relations with other states. Kosovo simply does not meet the threshold of independence required by International Law.
Third, recognition of Kosovo violates the European Union’s Guidelines on Recognition in relation to states emerging from the former USSR and Yugoslavia issued in 1991. In particular, prospective states had to establish that they respected and guaranteed various international law norms relating to human rights and the rights of ethnic and national minorities. The situation of the remaining Serbian population in Kosovo, which is segregated behind barbed wire and protected only by the presence of international forces on the ground, is a horrific demonstration of the violation of these requirements in Kosovo.
As the war in Iraq has led to massive instability in the region and exacerbated the growth of terrorism, in like manner the precipitate recognition of Kosovo will lead to the same consequences in the Balkans. US and EU should take note of the concerns and interests of states in the region, such as Greece, Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia that are most likely to suffer from the regional instability that will inevitably follow recognition, and that have, therefore determined not to recognise Kosovo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Antoni Luka — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:43:15 GMT

Well put Pat. We will bury them. Im 43 have done time in eastren EUROPE military. If Russia wants war we will bury them and I will more than glad to join the team to show they the place. The commie crooks of Putin and company are just a new version of their granddady Stalin. USA have spoken Kosova is free not even mighty God can change that cuz we USA (are the God on earth. Serbs claim battle of Kosovo polje a battle they claim was between them and turks. NOT true . Battle was a coalition of christian forces (serbs, albanians,croats,hungarians) against a coalition of TURKS mainly and some serbs yes serbs princes. So in reality serbs fought serbs . This whole serbian propoganda is a myth. Slavs and Serbs moved in Kosova area way later than albanian tribes were there. The whole yugoslavia is a messs. That now is getting finally unwind. Kosova was never a Serbian land they just occupied it for a long long time.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

john doe, NV — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:46:15 GMT

The US is a FOOL to recognize Kosovo. I feel it was to throw a bone to the muslims... some idiot in the administration, said " oh gee we can prove to the world we like muslims if we throw Russia and Serbia under the bus AGAIN AND AGAIN.

Im so sick of Americans thinking eastern europe is out to get them. Russia could have been a GREAT ALLY yet Bush has kicked them under the bus again and again.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Chris G, Grand Prairie, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:50:08 GMT

First of all, the Serbs STARTED the war with the Albanians, who are by no means innocent here. However, throughout history, if you start a war and you underestimate the power of your enemy's friends and lose that war, too bad for you because you just lost some land. This was the Serbs' fault for following that rabid, ignorant, Hitler wannabe, Milosevic. I hate to see it, because after 18 months of working for the UN, I am convinced that it will be 50 years before there are enough educated, moral, and ethical Albanians to run a real country on their own without hundreds of millions of dollars worth of international hand-holding.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Machiavelli, Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:52:16 GMT

A couple of points about that Pat's "expert" analysis. Fighting for "freedom" is something that the US is pretty BAD at doing, at least lately. Everywhere, we stepped foot in order to create "democratic freedom" turned into a hell-hole. Also, if you were to ask Europeans or any Russian, they would tell you that they love their so called "regime" and put full confidence in their government. Therefore, stop making Russia seem as some kind of post-Communist, autocratic, undemocratic death machine. At least, no one hates Russians in the rest of the world...As far as Russia being a bully, etc.; Russia is pursuing the same goal any wise president would: securing his own nations security and peace. Some do it defensively and some do it offensively, like the U.S. Aiming missiles at Poland is a defensive move to counter-balance force that is being installed right next to their shoulder. Putin made Russia into a country at least twice better than its communist years (which were not too bad afterall considering free education, and healthcare that they had--something that US never seen). If you ask me, I rather know that maybe I shouldn't crack too many jokes about the gov't but be secure that in the hospital people would actually treat me for free, instead of letting me die on the floor like the Latina woman in Los Angeles. Feel free to respond :)

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Robert Ferrin,Bliss,N.Y. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:52:34 GMT

LOL oh My as if we haven't played the bully of the world quite well ourselves,have you forgot the invasion of a soverign country by the name of Iraq,population oh about the same as Kentucky.Those who throw stones should'nt pretend to live in a glass house.!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

I de Sena — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:53:29 GMT

Mr. Maceda's analysis is interesting but makes it seem as though the issue is just the ideological battle between a newly realigned East/West, with redrawn boundary lines. But the reality on the ground could be more complex if the American press bothered to explain facts like what exactly independence means for a tiny place like Kosovo, or why the U.S. might be so fascinated by it. So I suggest that readers of this article also take a look at the link below:

http://www.iacenter.org/balkans/serbia022208/

and then continue to read in other sources of information besides NBC.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Serbian Milo, Simi Valley, California — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:54:14 GMT

Pat! Sorry to say that your true ignorance (for a lack of a better word) is showing in your writing. Your claim of having freedom of press is so inaccurate. You live under the lies that American journalism brain washed you. How could you even make an objective opinion? You are no better criticizing by your blind and uneducated way of thinking. Did you happen to go to school at all? Maybe college? Then you would have know what critical thinking is all about. In your case critical ignorance.

Oh! John of Chicago. Are you smoking some sobering crack? Analyze this; you are no different as "ignorant Pat."

First and foremost, before declaring and believing all that you read from American newspapers, also read what newspapers from other nations print so you can see the whole picture and make an educated analysis. Pat, how can you even mention JFK, a President that was assassinated by his own government? Again take another toke on the pipe with John. You have to learn to just say NO!

The United States always interferes and meddles in others' lives. Even yours Pat and John! We have always been a Nation who meddles in other's affairs. This is why we are the most despised and hated country in the world. Also why our soldiers are dying daily.
I bet you two comatose monkeys would vote for John McCain.
I also bet the two of you voted for Bush. Unfortunate monkeys.

Here is a history lesson for both of you! 1389 Kosovo was Serbian till the Ottoman Turkish Empire raped, sodomized, killed, buried alive in bridges, forced women to have their Turkish babies, killed brothers and fathers, made people change their identities and force people to take on Islam, this lasted for over 500 years! Slowly but surely the Serbian people fought back and in 1912 gained their independence at the battle of Kosovo.

Now the immigrant Albanians want to take another's land to claim as their own. Kosovo is Serbia! Why don't we let another nationality take over Texas and make Texas it's own country? Why did we drive the Mexicans off of their land to claim our own? We as a Nation are just as guilty of Genocide as we are quick to declare someone else of the criminal.

People, I implore you to learn more history and understand the pain of others.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Andy, Henderson, NV — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:54:40 GMT

For years now Russia has been slowly building their economy. They have been securing contracts to operate as well as outright buying oilwells, pipelines, and distribution centers. And all the while the West has watched. More interested in whether Barry Bonds was doing steroids. Now a new and revitalized Russia is once again talking tough. And who can we blame it on but ourselves.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

I de Sena — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 04:56:26 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

roger,kentucky — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:03:39 GMT

here we go again, ignoring the united nations as if we rule the world. there are rules and even the mightest can be brought down when they ignore the majority's wishes. tthis isn't about one country, but the political stability of the whole world, what would we think if vermont or texas or caligornia declared themselves a nation unto themselves.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Robert Ferrin,Bliss,N.Y. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:05:38 GMT

If anyone thinks we will tangle with the Bear you are sadly mistaken,do you really think we can go over and take on Russia you must be mad,Germany tried it and lost a million men.Trust me when the Bear growls those in Washington listen real close,besides we only pick on the little ones like Nam and Iraq,hmm don't make out very well there either.!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Michael, Seattle, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:06:24 GMT

Nothing sobering about it. Try to fix your mom's another mariage first. Who are you to decide about something your knowlege equal null. Irak? You probably still think they have nuclear weapons?
You talking history against religion here, its never win-win. Sometimes its better not to advise anything.
Russia been thru that many times. And now they can actually be a force. Thanks oil. Its a war! Its not going to end till Kosovo back in Serb's pants.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Faisal, Mumbai — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:16:23 GMT

America is ruled by war mongers and will ignite a new course of war in mid of Europe. The world today does not understand that why world's most civilised people selected such idiots to power. In a long run America is buying more enemies for itself and its allies. A war torned world has very little to offer. We have severe issues than raising wars. There are Healthcare issues, reconstruction, farm development, disaster control, poverty of third world countries and many more but still American Govt. want to raise wars and make world worst to stay in. Power has kept shifting and for sure future will see the same. Have we ever analyzed the world of shifted power? That world will ruin all who will have any past connection with suh autocrites. I am personally afraid of such back lash for generation next. World has witnessed it and history is witness to that. Please let us make a difference by opposing our US Govt. policies of mishandling world harmony from East to West before it gets to American door steps.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jano — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:21:49 GMT

Turkey launched an military impact on Kurdish "rebells" in Iraq. That is OK, because Turkey is an US ally and member of NATO, which means, they could do what ever they want.
Great Britain has been occupying the Northern Ireland for centuries. An Irish Republican Army has been formed to regain their own land from agressors. IRA was marked as terrorist organization. Why now US don't support IRA? Why they don't support ETA in Spain? Why they do not support the Kurds in Turkey?
Those locations are not interesting.
THe american economy has been on decline and the government have to do something to prevent it, otherwise americans will not have a cheap gasoline and they will not able to ride their giant truck, further devastating environment. So here is the question: What is better to kick up the economy than weapon bussiness? But for selling weapons they need a war. So let do spark one in Europe, that will place the whole continent in turmoil and we will be again on the top. Who cares about some serbs... "We are americans, and we are the top of the world an we could do what ever we want!"
Separating Kosovo is the same as if in Texas would Mexicans say, ok guys, we are majority here now and we want independence! And USA will begin and military counteraction, but a stronger country will begin bombing them and force US to abandon the Texas. Then under "international law" the rest of the world will accept Texas as an independet state.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mark — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:25:48 GMT

Nicholas: "We, in the USA are a country supposely dedicated to the idea of freedom. When people, anywhere on the globe that were once forced together, now want to go their own way, our country should support them"

Really? I haven't heard enthusiastic support for Lakota Indians asking for independence from the USA. What if some states with oil resources decide to declare independence from the US, will you support them?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Gjergji NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:38:16 GMT

It is sad to see the hate that comes out of the Serbs from this board. The battle of 1389 was a battle that Albanians, Croatians, and Hungarians participated also. Serbs love to steal history and make it their own. Finally the injustice committed against Albanians in 1912 was reversed. God Bless the USA and all other countries that recognized Kosova as a free independent state. They realized that independence was the only route to take.

The religion of the Albanian is and will always be Albanianism. I have to say to all the people that make us seem like muslim extremist that if we were like jihadis there would have not been free beer and wine in the streets of the capital of Kosova during celebrations. Our women would have been covered and not participated in the celebrations. It is true that majority is considered muslim but how many are actually even practicing it? Albanians have never fought eachother over religion. In Albania and Kosova there is people that practice Islam, Christian, Budhism, Bektashi, and Jehovah's witness faiths but are able to coexist and actually have interfaith marriages. The war for Kosova in 1999 was not a religious war but a war of justice of people that were oppressed, raped and killed by the serbs for 100 years. Also do not forget that it was an Albanian in the 1400s that defended christianity. Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu was his name and Sultan Mehmet of the Ottoman Empire has stated that if it wasn't for him he would have put a turban on the Pope's head. How did Albanians pay for protecting christianity and the Western World? By being subjected to 500 years of Ottoman rule and forced to convert to islam while the rest of the world moved on and forgot about these freedom loving people. The serbs paid a tax to the turks that is why they were not subjected to represials and maintained their religion.

Albanians love America and what it stands for. This was displayed when President Bush visited Albania in June of 2007. There the American Flag was not burned and there were no rioters but just crowds of welcoming the President of the United States. (I know most people do not like him but he still is the President of the United States and the honor given to him was not just for him but for the whole USA) Albania has 120 special troops in Iraq and 120 in Afghanistan. It has openly said that it fully supports the war against terror and plans to stay in Iraq for as long as the US remains there. (Believe me it is not that I agree 100% with the war in Iraq but does that not show what kind of allies the Albanians are?)

And please to everyone, go read more about the Ballkans so you can have a clearer idea as to what was at stake here.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Angela, Toronto — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:42:25 GMT

Eriola, Montreal said: "the Serbian army killed over 15,000 unarmed and innocent Kosovars,raped 20,000 women, including little girls aged 10-11 years old. Destroyed over 120,000 houses and left homeless
1 million people."

Unfortunately, there aren't any proves for your numbers, almost all allegations against Serbs were dismissed in courts, similarly to WMD in Iraq. Do some search in Internet yourself.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Stephen Goddard Newport News Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:42:30 GMT

IDIOTS
RUSSIA IS PEACEFUL (not a bully in any way)
have u not noticed its the AMERICAN EMBASSY the Kosovo rioters attacked
one day u ppl will not be so blind
FREEDOM DOES NOT EXIST

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Stephen Goddard Newport News Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:46:02 GMT

wait a second..... silly ppl
Russia is peaceful
kosovo rioters attacked the AMERICAN EMBASSY
wait does that mean US is bad...
if u werent so blind u would know freedom does not exist

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Kossam,Johannesburg,South Africa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:48:10 GMT

Kosovans are not foreigners in a Country of their own.If this is good for their freedom,it must be good for anyone who loves peace.Why should Russians want to privatise the Earth.People who love peace do not look at statitics ,but driven by compassion for peace.Back off Russia!If it means defending their peace at all cost,Kosovo must do so.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Zygmunt, El Sobrante, California — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:56:44 GMT

Imagine:
In 10 years California will be populated in 90% by Hispanics. They proclame independence and Russia will support this move? Would you call it get even?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bobby, New York, NY. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:58:11 GMT

With World War 3 inevitable, I personally can't wait till it's over. Any-which-way it happens. Peace!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Enklid, Dallas, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:18:55 GMT

It is strange how some people speak without knowing the history.Those "muslims" in kosovo are sons of Iliria as albanians are.They have nothing in common with serbs, and they are in their ancient land.The kososvo "muslims" and albanians has been all christians until west failed to help them fighting the ottoman empire.Fighting alone for more than 50 years, they protected the west from becoming muslims as well. For 500 years kosovo and albania has been under ottoman empire forced to change religion. The western world is giving back something that kosovars and albanians has given centuries ago.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Roy Rogers, Manhattan, KS — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:28:56 GMT

Despite what any of you crazies say about whether this was a good idea or not, the US could not support democracies all over the globe then say, well russia doesn't like this one so we can't support it. And all you people talking about Russian power can't see two feet in front of your face. Russian threats will only drive the western european powers back into the arms of the US after the disagreements over Iraq. Russia isn't impotent, but they couldn't take on a United America and Europe. And those who claim Russian soldiers are superior to anyones need to think again. A russian air force officer of the second rank is required to do what a basic airman does in the United States Air Force. The best thing for US popularity in the world would be for Russia to start flexing its muscles again. As to india and pakistan, neither would join russia for fear of the other joining the united states, you can bet that both would side with USA out of pure self preservation, and china wouldn't risk the economic problems of us stopping trade with them. You can all wring your hands if you want, but this move by the US and EU is a very well thought out and decidely purposeful move.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

A breath of truth, USA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:38:18 GMT

//Imagine Serbia is the US and Kosovo was Texas. One day the illegal Mexican immigrants gather and say there are now more Mexicans in Texas than Americans so we're going to take Texas and call it illegalland. //

Actually believe it or not, that is how Texas came into the United States in the first place. American (white) settlers moved in to Mexican territory on the border and began to ranch there. The Mexican government protested such an illegal action but the United States said it would defend its people. Then in the early 1830s those settlers (still a vast minority in Texas) rebelled and and The Mexicans attacked the Alamo. Two hundred Americans vs 5000 Mexicans. Though Davy Crockett lost and all 200 were killed, the Pyrrhic victory broke the entire Mexican Army's back. The US trounced them in the Mexican-American war, netting Everything from the Rio Grande west to the pacific, including all of California. Texas became an independant country (the origin of their "Lone Star" thing) and then joined the United States by popular vote.

Funny how the reverse is now happening on the US-Mexican border....

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Opus — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:38:50 GMT

I don't think we'd like it if the Russians recognized the Lakota tribe as a new nation within the boundaries of the US. After all, they did declare their withdrawal from the treaty with the US made over a century ago, and are no longer US citizens.

But its strange how we (the US) is willing to recognize Kosovo's independence, yet is scared of recognizing Taiwan's independence from China.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

krzysztof a. drabik,vancouver,wa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:41:49 GMT

i think that is great but can kosowo sustain it self in independent state, also chemical biohazmat that was used for years has to be adressed. that is my two cents.thanks.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

CarlosX, miami, FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:51:18 GMT

I believe that the United States will go to war with Russia. John Titor talked about this. It is coming true. WWIII is close.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tony.R, Moscow; Russia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:56:22 GMT

THE FACT and THE HYPOTHESIS: Kosovo is the cradle of Orthodox Christanity in the Balkans for centuries. In the last twenty years the Muslim population increased with average of five children per family, whereas the Christian population declined in keeping with its European trend (i.e. one per family in average).
So my dear brothers from West, BEWARE tomorrow EU will have pockets of Muslim population declaring independence unable to integrate with the traditional Christian Europe and UK. So get ready to declare independence for Muslim countries within the European continent in XX years from now, if you vote for independence of Kosovo today.
It is all fine talking about democracy, freedom, independence etc..., but the fact is you cannot wash out history.
So it is not only the question of raising current unsolved issues in other pockets like Spain, Moldova etc.., but it also has other repercussions.
The conclusion is "Don't break the already shaken apple cart". Only negotiations for peaceful co-existence as an autonomous province within a traditional nation is the best hope. Or we are setting precedence for worse to fathom.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Byron L Proc — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:03:05 GMT

Who here has lived in Kosovo, and have actually been through any of their wars? and Dan its good to see you met warm welcoming people in Russia, the same kind of warm welcoming people you will find here, but have you Dan been where these people have been Dan? Have you had to wake up everyday and know your are in a war zone, that by chance any day would be your last? America is not to blame, actions are made by many, not just America, keep blaming a country you live so free in, and have the chance to live with your dreams, one day you wont have any of it, and Russia, they supplied the war criminal we were fighting against, what was it 13 billion in weapons to help Iraq fight against us? and now they are crying over Kosovo? Why because they will set a chain reaction of oppressed country's to demand independence for themselves? Isnt that what we all want is to be free, to be able to be independent?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

stan vancouver ,canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:05:35 GMT

The USA is in a terrible downward spiral,economically socially and spiritually.they are depending more and more on other countries for it's survival.manufacturing in the dumps and unemployment up .the housing crisis deepening.the middle class getting poorer by the minute,shortage of oil and now no water in the south could lead to more chaos.no wonder russia,china and india are pushing their weight around.the USA is trillions in debt and going deeper.no end in sight for the iraq war .it looks like a scary future for most americans.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Riaz — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:06:34 GMT

East Timur was separated from Indonesia. People in the West have long demanded a separate country for Southern Sudan as well.

And the biggest one.. Israel created out of Palestine as it was called then.

So why not Kosovo ? Hmm may be because it is a muslim dominated province asking for independence..

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

luke Rousabout — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:07:39 GMT

HEAR HEAR!!! and WELL SAID !!!! to you Dan Portland of Oregon. Your comments should be made mandatory reading by every American alive today irrespective of age.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sam Watkins — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:08:29 GMT

Ray from Detroit said it best concerning the sitution in Kosovo. For the U.S., the best way to deal with this situation is to let it be for now. Kosovo is declaring its independence, only to get the private support financially from the West. Its all about money, and this is what is happening througout Europe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

A Russian in Miami — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:12:09 GMT

This is much ado about nothing. The Russians are doing what Chavez is doing and riding the wave of energy costs to be more assertive. Russia will sound all big and bad and try and look strong but they will not risk their nations newfound prosperity (based all on oil and natural gas prices btw) for Serbian pride.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vanak, Philadelphia, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:18:08 GMT

For those that are against the cry for freedom and independence by Kosovars, are very ignorant. Modern day United States of America never mistreated and oppressed their people like the Serbs did to Albanians in Kosovo. How can you blame Kosovo for proclaiming their independence? The Russians don't care about Kosovo. They care more about the natural resources their. Also, Russia is afraid that other republics may follow Kosovo and try to break away and claim their independence. That is because they are oppressed and treated badly by the Russians. American state(s) would not have any reason to break away from the Unites States. I am a recent immigrant to the US and now I'm proud to be a US citizen....thanks to America! Stop blaming America. Since when did you see Russia or China help rebuild a country after their invasion or occupation? Current crises in Chechna, Cambodia, Burma, Lao, Sudan, just to name a few, are all the result of Chinese and Russian involvement and their proxy wars with the West. The Communist philosophy sounds cozy and ideal, but never work in reality. Wake up people! Watch out for the bullying Russia and China. I agree we miscalculated by invading Iraq, but with good intentions. How comes no one blame Sadam for oppressing his people? America is not perfect, but I'm still rather be here in america than any other places in the world. America would be much stronger if unite and stand behind our leaders. Sometimes we have to fightfor peace.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

J.K. H** — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:24:36 GMT

The US is NO Bully, we just don't take attacks or threats lying down, and if someone is out to hurt us,
lets give them what they're looking for!!
Screw Kosovo, why should we get involved in some 4th
rate countrys affairs, if Serbia is strong enough to
prevent seperation, good for them. WAKE UP!! Islam in
all forms Muslims of all types are the ENEMIES of the
western world, ALWAYS have been, ALWAYS will be; those
who say otherwise engage in wishful thinking and are
just ignorant of reality(and are fools)!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

bryan green — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:28:38 GMT

have I just read where muslims will proudly fight alongside Americans in kosovo, what happened to the business of not associating with infidels. kosovo is he gateway for islamic extremism into central europe .

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Carlos, Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:29:58 GMT

I agree with the comment that blames Clinton bombing Serbia in order to divert the attention from the impeachment. In that moment I lost my admiration for Clinton, but shouldn’t we blame the republican machinery going after him for just having a little fun?
Seen the “fat” guy leading the republicans into the Senate was the most ridiculous thing I ever have seen on TV.
This was a problem of Hilary and him, not a problem of a Nation, but it has become a World’s problem. Next time think twice before prosecuting somebody for just dropping his pans.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bill Spinazola — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:30:19 GMT

Actually the Second World War never ended, which is a continuance of the First World War, when will all the fresh little punks wake up and stop the Third World War.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

andrew,Tacoma,Washington — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:37:15 GMT

America has no right to tell a foreign country to accept a declaration of independence from one of its own regions, when here in America we refused the same declaration by the Southern States. To this day the Federal government would not allow any of the States here in America to rescend from the Union, so who are we to tell another country to do what we have already refused to do. Maybe Russia needs to bring its military to Serbia in an effort to stop America from bullying other smaller and weaker countries. As I personally would not fight nor would I allow my children to fight for the lies or rights of others when we ourselves are loosing more everyday here. What happens in other countries is not my concern when we have so many problems here that need to be fixed first.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Justin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:42:10 GMT

Everybody seems to forget a couple of facts that set's Kosovo's recent declaration apart from other separatist movements. 1) Even before the 1998-99 wars, prior to Milosevic, back to the founding of Yugoslavia at the end of WW2, Kosovo was declared an autonomous province, an ethnic republic like Bosnia, Croatia and Slovenia. As part of that designation, they had the right to declare independance as part of Yugoslavia's constitution, as did Croatia, Bosnia, etc. 2) Serbia lost the right to declare Kosovo as part of Serbia when Milosevic and his thugs indiscriminately killed ethnic Albanians and forced almost a half-million innocent civilians out of the country. 3) (And this is most important) Kosovo's recent declaration was merely a formality. Kosovo has been separate and for all intents and purposes, independant of Serbia for 10 years. The UN has been governing it and NATO has been providing the security force. Serbia's cabinet even had their liasons with the "province" serve in the same function as Foreign Diplomats. They all report to the Foreign Minister. To sum it up, Kosovo has been separate an independant from Serbia for a long time now. Not much has really changed. I might also point out the "myth" of the slavic heartland. Serbs and most Bosnian/Croatians are slavic peoples. They migrated and uprooted the native population, known as the Ilyrians. We know Ilyrians today as Albanians.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Morocco Property — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:54:02 GMT

Hi to alls

It is a good post and really like it because we will have to know about what is happenning in Kosovo.Kosovo is also captured.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

C Smith — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:56:02 GMT

Today’s incursion on an already evacuated American embassy by a few hundred Serbs out of almost 200,000 taking part in an otherwise peaceful protest was provoked by the declaration of the Independent state of Kosovo. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in a prepared statement earlier this week affirmed: "The United States has today formally recognized Kosovo as a sovereign and independent state.” Few comprehend the consequential sensation of déjà vu Serbs are experiencing; almost 70 years ago, another independent state was declared: the Independent State of Croatia.

In May 1941, the Independent State of Croatia was established by a Nazi puppet regime, the Ustaša. Archbishop of Zagreb Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac immediately blessed the regime and offered prayers for Ante Pavelic its leader. Stepinac even arranged for Pavelic to be personally received by Pope Pius XII in Rome. As “Father Confessor” to the Ustashi, Stepinac declared, "God, who directs the destiny of nations and controls the hearts of Kings, has given us Ante Pavelic and moved the leader of a friendly and allied people, Adolf Hitler, to use his victorious troops to disperse our oppressors... Glory be to God, our gratitude to Adolf Hitler and loyalty to our Poglavnik, Ante Pavelic." And with Stepinac’s blessing the Independent State of Croatia immediately instigated a pogrom of Serbian extermination.
http://popularapostasy.blogspot.com/2008/02/archbishop-stepinac.html

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

VINCENT JERSEY CITY NEW JERSEY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:58:10 GMT

I CANNOT BELIEVE HOW THERE IS PEOPLE WHO DARE TO TALK ABOUT DEMOCRACY AND RIGHTEOUSNESS WHEN ALL THEY ARE CAN BE SUMMARIZED WITH INGNORACY. SERBS ARE JUST A BRANCH OF THE SLAVIC TREE THAT ARE LATE COMERS TO THE BALKANS EVEN AFTER THE VARIOUS BARBARIAN WAVES. ALBANIANS ARE THE SECOND OLDEST NATION OF THE REGIONS AND HAVE SUFFERED FROM ALL KINDS OF OCCUPATIONS. THEY ARE THE ONLY COUNTRY IN EUROPE THAT THERE WAS NO JEWISH PERSECUTION AND BECAME A SAFE HEAVEN FOR THE JEWISH PEOPLE FROM OTHER BALKAN STATES. RELIGION HAS BEEN A MARK OF THE EMPIRES WHICH HAVE CONQUERED THEM IN THE PAST BUT THEY HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY KIND OF RELIGIOUS WARS. THEY HAVE BEEN ALWAYS CHOPPED FROM GREAT POWERS OF THE TIMES BECAUSE THEY ALWAYS INSISTED IN THEIR NEUTRALITY AND ARE FORGIVING PEOPLE AS HISTORY HAS SHOWN. BETWEEN 1930 AND 1940 OVER A MILLIONS ETHNIC ALBANIAN WERE FORCED OUT TO TURKEY FROM THEN FORMER YUGOSLAVIA AS PART OF THE NEVER STOPPING COLONIZATION OF ALBANIAN ETHNIC LAND. THEY ARE A NATION OF LEAD BY EXTREME VIOLENCE WITH A STRONG FORMULA OF RELIGIOUS EXTREMISM AND BRAINWASHED NATIONALISM. THE CRADLE OF SERBIAN CIVILIZATION AND ORTHODOX CHURCH IS EAST OF THE URALS NOT IN EUROPE. WE CANT REVERSE HISTORY ALL THE WAY BACK BUT THERE SHOULD BE FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY AND NATIONS SHOULD HAVE THEIR WILL FULFILLED THAT IS THE ONLY WAY OUR WORLD CAN PROSPER BY RECOGNIZING OTHER FOR WHOM THEY ARE AND START FROM THERE TO COOPERATE TO MAKE OUR LIVES BETTER. HATE AND EXTREMISM IS OUR HEAVIEST WEIGHT. THOSE WHO BADMOUTH THIS GREAT COUNTRY OF THE USA AND DARE TO OFFEND ITS GREAT PEOPLE THEY SHOULD GET THE HELL OUT AND GO WHERE (I WILL REFRAIN MYSELF FROM VULGARITY)

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George Sararu, Hemet Ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 07:58:39 GMT

The US army never lost a war! The politicians did!
Our corrupt Congressman's and Senators did when they blurred the rule of engagements and turn against our own troops in the name of "political gain"

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

PAT, BATUMI,GEORGIA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:12:15 GMT

MILO FROM SERBIA, IF YOU WILL READ MORE ATTENTIVELY YOU WILL PERCEIVE IRONY AND SARCASM . MAYBE YOU DONT KNOW THAT MY COUNTRY, GEORGIA VERY WELL KNEW ALL SWEETS OF "SPREADING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY" (FORGIVE MY BAD ENGLISH)

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Düsseldorf, Germany — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:13:55 GMT

As usual, if it comes to it, God help us, it will be innocent civilians and poor soldiers who will have to deal with the hardships that comes with hostile times....it is a pity that political leaders are not put on the front line to face the reality of actions they take, (in the name of freedom or whatever)...Are we are never going to learn, that problems are not solved with aggresive actions. And to the minority of short sighted Americans with big mouths, do you know where Kosivo is without looking at a map? But then who cares, its miles from America right!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eli B., Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:21:08 GMT

First, just because most people are ignorant about the history of the Balkans and the region of the Balkans it doesn't make Kosovo ever as an original Serbian region. That is because Serbians, otherwise known as Slavs, are brand new in the region only about 1000 years old. Albanians and Greeks are the two oldests types of civilizations that were there before the Slavs arrived and invaded the region. They took Kosovo and other region from the Albanians(Illyrians descent) and the fact that it has been inhabited by 80-90% of Albanian nationals shows the real truth.
As far as our Russian friends, they are to feel pitty for and much much anger. The most "stupid politically" country in the 20th century that was the cause of the destruction and many many tyrranies around Europe and other places (Cuba, Albania, Romania, China, Vietnam, Georgia, USSR etc.) because of their low unhuman communistic ideas. They dare to come out and talk about what is right and wrong?? The Russians should pay attention to their own eggs, the same goes for the Serbians. Now are the Serbians mad huh??? They managed (Milojevic) to destroy a whole country, to kill hundreds of thousands Muslims and non-Muslims and now that their old country(Yougoslavia) was seperated in about 7 other countries they are ticked of about the Albanian region of Kosovo???
Gentleman, we don't fear neither you Serbians nor your Russian friends. We are 10 million Albanians in this world maybe even more, and we will fight you to death because pigs like you put religion over lives, political systems over human rights. America supports us and as all the other great European powers (except from Russia) because they are not historically ignorant nor they will tolerate fascist pigs getting away with genocides. Serbia got what they deserved.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Wilson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:21:20 GMT

Will the US let one of its states break away if they want freedom on of these days??

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tobi, Haarlem, NL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:21:38 GMT

It is irresponsible for the USA to support the independance of Kosovo. Its nothing short of a secession. Kosovo is not some kind of colony wrongly taken over by Serbia and oppressed, it is an contiguous part of the country. Whats next, the Basque region or Chechnya? If such seperateist movements are allowed and encouraged, they are most often achieved through violence and quite often terrorism. So in a way, the United States is supporting and justifying the very thing it spends billions of dollars every day fighting.

If Russia wants to use its 'brute force' and quash this, more power to them. The people of Kosovo are not being oppressed or any worse off then the rest of Serbia. As nice as it would be for them to declare their own country, I think they'll live even if they are disappointed. Id rather see that, than another century of violence in the Balkans.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

P Logeswaran, Essex. U K — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:22:52 GMT

US and European union has made the right decison by reognising Kosovo nation who were subject to brutal oppression by Serbia after the death of Marshal Titto.

Russia , China and India will not recognise as they brutally supress their minorities with military force. West make these countries rich in the name of Free Trade.

There are many minorities in the world whoese rights has beeb suprresed by their governments . In Sri Lanks , Tamils are being killed every day by Sri Lankan Army with the help of arms from US , Russia , China & India. Tamil nation should be recognised as Kosovo soon to save the tamil people from genocide.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Michael Steinberg, NewYork, NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:23:24 GMT

Serbia has been taught that there is a severe punishment connected with detesting the people you rule, and commiting genocide against them. 90% of Kosovo is ethnically Albanian; 90% of that 90% is Moslem. The facts can not be suppressed without a strong reaction....that is called independance. Serb ultra-nationalism is no different that Hitler.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Michael Steinberg — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:25:46 GMT

I never heard any Serb say they loved the Albanians as fellow citizens, equal to Serbs. Until they can in good faith swallow that one, they have no right to scream at the onrush to Independence. To be a scorned underclass has no place in the 21st century!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

C. Holmes, Glen Rose, Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:25:56 GMT

The US does not need to get involved in this. We're trillions of dollars in debt, we're in a war we shouldn't be in (but thank you fighting troops), and the US economy is on a cliff of major economic recession. If you ask me, we don't need to be worried about other nations, the US needs to help itself and plant our feet back on the ground.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ezra — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:31:20 GMT

To Dan from Portland, Oregon:

It is easy to make claims such as living in other countries and experiencing first-hand how other nations regard the USA but without proof you have lost any basis for making an argument. Furthermore, it is easy to point the finger at an individual and make outrageous accusations like "You are responsible as an American Pat, for killing thousands of Iraqi childern" but the fact of that matter is that even if we do elect the officials who are truly responsible for the actions that led to the death's of Iraqi citizens, we as citizens have very little to do with actual policy making. I must admit, the moment I read your post I immediately thought of you as a politician. Politicians, much like feces-flinging monkies, are little more than whores to the media more concerned with how they will be perceived by the general public than doing the right thing. On a personal note I will say that I support nothing that the American government has been doing for the past several years. I see no reason for myself to become involved or to support becoming involved merely because I hold the saying, "in the end, the Universe tends to unfold as it should" to heart. It's time that America tends to its own business and let the rest of the world do the same.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dean, Seattle WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:43:53 GMT

Threats made by Russia about using force about Kosovo seems to me that they are looking for something, probably money.
Let's say that Serbia will take back Kosovo (which I find it hard to believe) then this means that 2 million Albanians who live in Kosovo and about 6 millions who live in other countries have to fight back because there is no way on earth we are about to experience what happened to us in the past years expecially in 1999. No one would be able to understand how did we (Albanians) lived during that time, only I and other who were there would be able to describe such thing. I don't want to go and write about that but simply we were treated as we didn't deseve to live by Serbs. Just imagine if someone comes to your house and harras you on from of your family and also sexualy abuse your wife/sister on from of you and in the end kill you, what would you do? And the reason is just because you're Albanian not Serb.
Albanians from Kosovo beleive in freedom, as Americans do. We always believed in USA, we always loved this (USA) country. Today I am US citizen and if Russians are asking for something that none one wants(war) then I would be among the first one to fight against them. Let's just hope that they (Rusians) are barking as they always do
God bless USA!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ujwal Bhattarai. Sydney, Australia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:53:16 GMT

Thats the place which gave birth to WW-I which became the reason forr II, then because of It, the cold war, and then the crisis of the 90's. Now what?

just when it seemed like it all has comes to an end. Idiots of EU and US, decided to drop cold water in pan of boiling oil.

You should have thought of the consequences. I'm afraid, this is not going to have a happy ending.
Now who is going to be take responsibility for the suffering that Kosovars may have to endure for a long time.I am sure....the US will hide its tail and run back when the shit hits the fan.

If you wanted to give democracy, why not start with Palestine and give them independence first? When every other country thinks they should be.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eron London UK — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:00:48 GMT

Kosovo is not serbian land and never was ,on 1912 they occupied Kosovo and at that time west recognised occupied Kosovo as Serbian land ,they say we defended Kosovo on 1389 is lie big lie ,the truth is on 1389 Albanians Serbs Hungarians Montenegrian and some other west countries tried to stop turks from advancing further north not to defend Kosovo because Kosovo was albanian land .Serbs say Kosovo is our land because we have there our monastiers ,well is same if muslims after 500 years say for London is our land because we have mosques there .

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Conor Gorey (yes thats my last name), Surf City, USA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:04:19 GMT

I believe Kosovo has the right to become independent. In theory it could happen in america, but wont for it a more lucrative deal to be part of this country. The balklans were always one of the politica epicenters, warsaw verses nato were mostly in these areas.
Putin wishes to have the old soviet union back becuas ehe enjoys power, no other reason. The US could easily bury him like a few earlier commentors have said and just because we don't use our natural wealth, does not mean we don't have it. Be it the coal and iron deposits of the northeast, the half a trillion barrels of shale oil in four corners or the immense wealth off our coasts. We are very wealthy, the debt is on paper folks, just like the budget surplus during clinton years.
But this isn't about USa or Russia, this about Kosovo and thier wish to be a seperate nation. The basque or Chechens will not get i for they kill innocents. Kosovo did it in a relative peaceful way and if they can become a productive member of Europe then who are we, people of little intelligence of the situation, to judge.
Our job is to help them, like we have with S. Korea, Japan and others. Of course this will not silence the mob, but it is the truth. This world is becoming fractured in a good way, a people should have thier own land to call thier own. I personally think if we we (the world) redrew africa so lands we by tribes it would be a realtivly more peacefull continent.
Most of the negative comment is from fear of change, some good advice is to relax and let the people of Kosovo make thier own decision... jerks.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Diana, SH, MI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:12:52 GMT

"KOSOVO" will and always will be "Serbia" it cannot ever be anything else, just like Michigan will always be Michigan not Albania because there are thousands of them here, how is that right, is it? America needs to stopping put there nose where it don't belong, cause pretty soon these islamic potrayers will be asking for independent states here in America, or is that not possible cause its America, perhaps Bush and the American gov should declare Dearborn, MI as independent state since its populated not 80% but 120% by islams from Iraq, Iran , and Saudi. So America but out, its not ur place to say who Kosovo belongs to, it belongs to Serbia!! And it is Kosovo not Kosova stupid people!!!!!!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Saffan, Manchester — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:18:57 GMT

If OIC(Organisation of Islamic Conference) were Influential, 53 countries would have strongly backed Kosovo. poor bastards.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jerry Pernia, Myrtle Beach, SC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:28:55 GMT

The USA is not outstreched by any means. Outstretched is when you cant move you millitary in a certain amount of time and we can move ours in a matter of days. The Roman Empire as an example was over extended because they couldnt reach their outposts fast enough so they were outstrecthed because it took them months to get to some points that needed reinforcements. So anyone who says we are outstretched doesnt have a clue.

Russia does not want to use nukes, no one except terrorists would use them this day and age. So I wouldnt lose any sleep over the fear of that untill Iran has some.

We injected a small virus called freedom into Russia and it is spreading. It has a long way to go but it will continue to grow.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ben Thirlway, Brisbane, Australia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:31:44 GMT

Albanians have their own country - Albania. Let them live there if they want independence. Instead, they multiply outside their own borders (Albanian families in Kosovo of 15 children were not uncommon) and then push for independence when they tip the demographic balance. They will do this again and again throughout the Balkans... wait and see. They are a bunch of Islamist thugs and criminals. They began the war in Kosovo through terrorist tactics. It wasn't the Serbs who started the killing, but they were sure as hell determined to end it, and when the Kosovars started losing, they went crying to the UN. The West ignored the real ethnic cleansing - the harassment and violence against Serbs in Kosovo by Albanians. The Serbs were defending their own, but the West, ever victim to Hollywood underdog tales and happy endings, saw Serbia as the bully.

Well America, it will happen to you. Enjoy the Reconquista in the Southwest - when Hispanics are the majority by 2031, they will agitate to become part of Mexico. And hopefully the world will recognise their claim and teach you what it's like to lose a part of your homeland to invaders, aided and abetted by the international community.

Russia and Serbia are right. The West is wrong. Nothing more to it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Simon, dublin Ireland — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:33:24 GMT

Nearly a hundred years ago, a little violence in Serbia led to the first world War.Serbia when threatened turned to the Russians, and the next thing every one was in. The creation of Kosova creates a similar risk, except that Nato are already there and Serbia has turned to Russia again. Will Russia resort to brute force and trigger a third war? You can safely bet against that. All the posturing and jingo-ism of the Russians is about frightening their own problem areas such as Ukriane, Chechnya and the rest.
Good luck Kosova - Lets hope you suceed in retaining your freedom

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Troy Norcross,Inverness,Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:41:26 GMT

russia is spinning its miltary threats again to gain its old soviet cold war stance in the world,the russians sholudnt talk about international law..they were the biggest takers in hostile takeovers..doesnt any body remember the soviet bloc......and if need U.S will always defend freedom and demorcacy...let us in the world not try to stop thinking for freedom...if we had done that in the past.... we would all be speaking german in the world....god bless america and everyone in the world who is for freedom..

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vesna, Wellington, NZ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 09:55:30 GMT

For all of you who claim mass killings of albanians by serbian army, please see the link bellow. This is the reason to start with bombing of Serbia. Just to give you a title and little details:

The 1999 Racak Massacre: KLA (Kosova Liberation Army)had been planning to fabricate "Serbian Crimes"

3 days before Racak: OSCE/KVM personnel reported that the KLA was planning
to fabricate "Serbian Crimes" in the area

These reports showed the development of a pattern of fighting in Kosovo. The KLA would always attack first, and then the state security forces would be forced to respond. Col. Kotur testified that the response was always proportionate, and that the state security forces always treated Albanian civilians humanely.
However, KVM head William Walker held a press conference where he accused Serbian troops of carrying out mass-executions in Racak. Subsequent investigation has proven that there was no massacre in Racak. Forensic science has shown that the people who died in Racak were definitely killed while participating in armed combat – not massacred.

http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=viewArticle&code=20060127&articleId=1836

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ray Charleston SC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:00:36 GMT

Where was all of this rhetoric when South Carolina tried to express its independence back in 1860? That war between the states caused more casualties than all of the other wars that the USA has fought combined. What benefit to the world is it to have a Muslim state in the heart of Europe?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dwayne Deason, Dallas, Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:01:02 GMT

However unlikely a world war could occur from recognition of some remote countries independence. I think we are all missing the point. How can the U.S continue to afford to police the entire planet. 44 million Americans can't even afford medical attention if needed. I pray that our next round of elected officials are focused on issues your average American citizen can relate to. Let the world work-out its own problems for a change.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

lynn — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:11:34 GMT

The last time i checked Slovenians, Croatians, Montenegrians, Macedonians and a percentage of Bosnians are christians. All of them had enough of the Serbian brotherhood. Serbs should calm down, forget about Slobodan Milosevic and try to embrace reality. Their heart was never in Kosovo, until Milosevic thought of this bullshit excuse to justify his crimes. Only Serbian priests, hopefully not all, pray for criminals to start wars. They put Christianity to shame.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

maceda skeptic — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:13:24 GMT

The symbolism of Kosovo as a heartland of Serb nationalism was very carefully nurtured and inflamed by Slobodan Milosevic. He may be dead, but the idea is not.

The fact that the ethnic Albanian majority in Kosovo has now broken free, or free to the extent that an internationally supervised form of independence allows, merely reignites a sense of victimhood in the hearts of some - by no means all - of the people of Serbia.

For more real news read:
Serbia faces crossroads over Kosovo
By James Robbins
Diplomatic correspondent, BBC News

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ali Haxhimustafa, Prishtinë, Republic of Kosova — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:15:06 GMT

There were always problems when people without knowledge and the right information messed with something. This is the same with all of comenters here. Its more than obvious that no one here know the Ballkans antic and late history. I strongly suggest all of you to read about Ilyrians and Serb Orthodox in Ballkans. Ilyrians (current Albanians) were living in these teritory about 8000 years ago, when no other nation was living in there, and Serbian Orthodox came in Ballkans from Carptats Mountains from Russia just now lately when barbars were trying to occupy the teritory, somewhere between 4-5 century of modern time. So, my dear comenters there is no argument against Kosova's independende, because the history's mistakes of 1913 are ripared right now, nothing else has happened.
Finally, i would strongly suggest to all serbs tp accept the reality in here, and to Russia, just remember that a country who talks to much, there is nothing from it, they have just periodic economic growth and then again a colapse which will happen in near future, because no country can depend solely on exporting one king of product, Gas in this case.
So Russia and Serbia can freely take some Vodka, get drunked and then start to cry about their desperating past and future.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Daniel — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:15:35 GMT

I am not surprised to see that US is again playing the "bias police of world" by recognising the independence of Kosovo. I do agree that US is a strong country which likes to do meddle with other countries affair. But like any other great empire in the history, they will eventually crumble in their own ignorance. Thank god that US is not the only dominant force in this world.... with the BEAR growling and the DRAGON awakening from its long slumber, it's just a matter of time before US realise that they are biting off more than they can chew!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Kat — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:17:23 GMT

This is not a wise thing to do, and the US forget that its face the same problem in its South border with Mexico, all these illegal immigrant, one day their descendant if they outnumber the natives and also if some unlikely conditions occur (situations such as the US go into a very deep recession and become so broke that the government couldn't keep up peace keeping) these Mexicans could claim Texas as theirs, this is not impossible.
Which Russian in 1950s when their country was at its top could have think that one day Ukranians would have seccede? Who would have think that the soviet will dislocate? I think none of them but it happened.
This situation happened only because the soviet went broke and even though they were the greatest power after the US but though it happened.
That why the leaders must always to be wise enough to respect the international law, and not only to use it when it is in your favor and ignore it when it is not.
The history of the world has proven to be so unpredictable so you never know what tomorrow will be...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

tony — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:21:21 GMT

Milosevic is laughing in his grave. All of his monstrous doing and he is getting a legion of believers. Kosovo was never heartland of Serbia. Read accounts of serbians being paid to live in lands soaked in albanian blood. read some history.
c'mon people don't fall prey of maceda's type, all hype, and no reality. he is the garbage boy of politics.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Rick from Hawaii — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:25:11 GMT

The worlds problem's would be solved so easy if it were not for the differences in opinion and understanding. "nothing is obvious to the un-informed". once the understanding is made, it may be too late or more differences to the understanding?...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Serio, Medford, OR. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:44:22 GMT

America is running blid into antother conflict. IRAQ? sept.11th happend bush then made right choice by going to Afganistan, but even before we were done there bush already wanted to go to war with saddam, why? WMD's? yeah right you dont hear much of that lie anymore, but i still hear of our military brothers and sisters falling in battle over their. kosovo is a hot topic right now and jumping into it to support an illigal act by kosovo is going to result in a US commitment. dont think so? it was the first to recognize a indipendet kosovo. people bigger then me and you have plans for that area and it will result in us getting tied up to a another conflict that we dont need to be in. heres a plan let stop spending billions of dollers "REBUILDING" iraq, their oil production is more then enogh to rebuild themselfs. lets take that money and rebuild ourselfs our economy is going to hell in a handbasket and nobody seems to care except the low and middle class which will feel the wrath. forclosures left and right come on
*STOP STICKING YOUR HAND IN OTHER PEOPLES COOKIE JARS, SOMEDAY SOMEONE IS GONNA CUT THAT HAND OFF*

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ron jr leonardtown md — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:55:53 GMT

This is where ww1 started... it would be nice to go at it with the russians and get all this over with once and for all...I am all for all out world war.. lets do it... we got nothing else to do.. make money and eat a mcdonalds..(isnt this why people hate us anyway ?)

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ron jr — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 11:02:56 GMT

Just one more world war and we will have got it all right... we need to thin out this population anyway.. lets pre strike russia now.. and be done with it.. a little radiation never hurt anyone... I want major wars.. not these little pissant wars where you can only kill certin people..all out global warfare.. and see who sits on top.. we may or maynot win but atleast sombody will rule for a change..

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

adriandobi@gmail.com — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 11:43:18 GMT

Russia is taking the role of UN owner. The UN belongs to all peoples and is not a joint of Russia interests. The way how UN is organized reflect the position of the long time ago 2nd WW winners and not that of the new democratic era. Russian idea of "Brute Force" is a SHAME for the UN organisation. I'm considering 10'000 peoples killed within two months in Kosova war or many other houndredthousands in other conflicts generated by Serbs in ex Yugoslavia. I'm considering many other houndreedthousands killed by the Russian "Brute Force" inside Russian Federation. What UN is doing to protect peoples live? Does other peoples have the right to get protection from UN or the right stand beside the Russia as one of the long time ago 2nd WW winner?
UN should not support anymore Russian hegemony. It is a catastrophic shame.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

David List,Lamai Beach,Koh Samui — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 11:43:34 GMT

Putin is a evil man and should be attacted at all fronts.He murders his own people and jail's them, forever, and him and China are the greatest threat's in the world.We just blew up a satellite in space,just to show the chinese we are ready for a fight in space,we just masked it so that it didn't look very powerful,we to have the wisdom to blow the shit out of anything they got,we just showed them the weakest one.We are a dynamic country and will return to are power soon,after Bush.Maybe, we need a cold war again, against Russia and China and make the best weapons in the world against them,like when we stopped Japan in it's track's.I am not talking about nuclear war but much more hidden equipment that can do great damage but not hurt the earth or human's in general,just the enemy.Kosovo is just a attempt to give the middle finger to the Soviet Union and China,same with the missle and all the space shuttle flights.Do you obviosly think we are up to visit the space station,grow up!An-expat living in Thailand

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Goran Tadic, Boston, MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 11:54:32 GMT

Doesn't anyone in the media checks the facts now? They only report what they hear around?

To say that Kosovo is the birthplace of Serbia is the same as saying Los Angeles is the birthplace of USA.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Milos Zivkovic, Belgrade, Serbia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:03:16 GMT

Dear Mr. Hajdini, in 1912 there was no Yugoslavia - it was created in 1918 after WW 1. Therefore Kosovo has not been annexed by Yugoslavia, but taken by then Kingdom of Serbia, from the Ottoman Empire, in the First Balkan War of 1912. At the time, the Serbs seen it as liberation, and Turks as defeat. I presume Albanians saw it as occupation, or at least they claim so today. However, this has nothing to do with the strong Serbian feeling that Kosovo is indeed their ancestral homeland. I presume you are Albanian, so you most probably know that almost all toponims in Kosovo are in Serbian, and only adapted to Albanian - Srbica is Serbise, Djakovica iz Gjakove, names of mountins, rivers are all mostly slavic, and now adapted to Albanian. The medieval Serbian "kings of the old", most of them canonized by the Serbian Ortodox Church, left their monasteries to witness their former greatness. Of course, there were inhabitants of these parts before the Serbs came, and I am aware that Albanians claim they are the descendents of these ancient inhabitants of the territory of Kosovo (this is used to ridicule the historical claim to the territory today, which is to an extent legitimate). The fact of the case is that the Serbs are not letting go of Kosovo, because they see it as their ancestral homeland, believe me - I myself am a moderate pro-Western Serb, but people like me shall be a strong minority for the next decade in my country (thanking to the West), and even I would not recognize Kosovo as an independent state, at least not before the whole Western Balkans become EU (only then shall the borders not matter). Just one point missing from the article which I find to be very good, btw, that is that the Serbs, in the recent two years, offered Kosovar Albanians almost everything apart actual independance - they would self-govern, have their own taxes and not pay taxes to the rest of Serbia, have their own police, monetary authorities etc. - the Serbs offered a state within a state, all but a seat in UN and Kosovo military, but the Albanians declined, knowing that the West shall back their claim to independence. Now we are in a clear-cut situation - Albanians won, Serbs lost. I, for one, do not think this is good not only for the Serbs, but also for Albanians. I hope I am wrong, but the moment the West blinks with their support to Kosovo, there will be a war to the horror of all of us living in the region, and broader Europe. If the situation does not change at all, what the West did by making Kosovo proclaim independence is plant a seed for an imminent war between Albanians and Serbs in the future. That is in nobody's interest.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Stephen,Philadelphia, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:20:17 GMT

When albanian resided in Dardian Territory (now Kosova)no slaves exsisted in Balcans. No one can be realistic when he or she does not know the history.
The myts are not history. Russia is that it is. It does not have to do with Kosova.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Lindsey, Calgary Alberta — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:33:46 GMT

So what do you guys think would happen if the U.S.A. adopts a Closed Door Policy again?

Think the U.S.A.'s economical and social issues might be solved then?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Nelson Simpson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:38:02 GMT

oh my god, its amazing to see how many people in the u.s. talk so much crap about there own country. bunch of whiny draft dodging socialist liberals.these people want there freedom from a people that has done nothing but tried to eliminate them.there economic situation is very bad whats wrong with wanting to be on there own so they can feel safe, try and build up there own country like the west.and for all you frieken commis out there that live in america and all you do is bad mouth it every chance you get like oh we're broke because of the war in iraq,we're bad because we recognize kosovo.well all i can say is that history will reveal weather iraq was the right move weather standing up for kosovo is the right thing to do.i get it maybe we should join the serbs and start the geonocide again. you bunch of losers all of you that bad mouth america and have prospered in america should go live in cuba permenantly.problem is you like prosperity and all of you dont have the balls to even go to these countries. so you rather stay here and defend them,while talk shit about your own country. pathetic

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vlad, Voorhees NJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:47:17 GMT

It would be interesting if MSNBC conducted kind of opinion pull: How many Americans support position of Pat from Philadelphia and how many supports Dan Portland from Oregon. That indeed will be something to judge where an American person stands.
For the starter, count my vote for Dan.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Nelson Simpson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:55:32 GMT

to dan from phily,
you sound to me like a proud anything but american your comments about us killing kids in iraq is just so disturbing sounds like the people that would call our troops baby killers when they came back from vietnam.i guess you were ok when sadam hussein was gassing his own people and killing kids intentionaly.the fact you dont mention that but so quick to say in your long speech that we killed kids in iraq and the bully we now are, would indicate to me that you think we went to iraq to simply kill women and children. now you can call me ignorant because people like you once people dont see your way your quick to insult make people feel small,wow all the ingredients of a bully. its people like you i talk about all the time. in your many travels i sure wish my so called american that you stay somewhere else other than america we dont want or need people like you here.this is coming to you from proud 2 tour iraq veteran and i never have complained once about iraq. everyone like a saddam hussein should be eliminated from the world. so do us all a favor go live in russia or would you prefer the soviet union.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Iutisone Tiliia, Manu'a, American Samoa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:30:29 GMT

Yes, my heart is for all the Kosovoian who finally made a right decissions for their beautiful country. Take you back to our famous Dr. Luthern King "Free at last, Free at last". May God bless the Kosovo country.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Marija, Washington DC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:35:19 GMT

Kosovo is a birthplace of Serbia, dating back to 1166, and the creation of the Kingdom of Serbia (our first king, Stefan Nemanja, was crowned in Kosovo region). Secondly, Kosovo is a birthplace of Serbian Orthodox church - Stefan Nemanja's son, St. Sava, was the first patriarch...

Thank you Mr. Maceda for noting that Kosovo to Serbians is the combination of Jerualem and Alamo, because that is exactly what it is - and even the most peaceful Serbians feel very touchy on the issue of Kosovo independence...

And one more point - if you think that what Milosevic did to Albanians in 90's was bad - try to see why millions and millions of Serbians have left Kosovo between 1960's and 1990's - and how it was covered up by Tito's regime in the name of the brotherhood and unity - millions of Serbians had left the region due to their women being raped, their fathers killed, and forced to chose between their homes or dying... Then include the fact that majority of Albanians in Kosovo came into the country illegally - and the 9:1 children ration per family - and there you get 90% of Albanians living there...

And just to answer one more thing - yes there is a prophecy about another war among Serbians - that says that it will be so bad that when it's over there will be only enough Serbians living to stand under one plum tree... Prophecy that just about every Serbian knows about (anyone scared that this might actually be it?)

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

ForLaw, Key Biscayne, Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:39:26 GMT

The Serbs destroyed whatever credible argument they had to keep Kosovo within their nation when that barbarian war criminal Slobodan Milosovic massacred the Kosovar Muslims. People ignore that post the Balkan civil war, Kosovo has survived only because NATO has had to station troops to keep the peace. Russia stood by Serbia and is equally guilty of the massacre. The other former Yugoslav republics have their independence--why not Kosovo?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Cameron, Newton, North Carolina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:42:03 GMT

Well, since Bill Clinton got us in this mess in the first place, I hope that his wife will quit saying how "irresponsible" it is for the problems in Iraq to be passed on to the next president.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

besim — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:43:15 GMT

I do not know why some people talk about Kosovo when they never been there and know nothing about what happened in war time there. Kosovo was Dardania in anciet world and US and all the world know this. Serbs came from Russia and occupied this land this is why Rusia has good relations with Serbs, same mentality same religion and same dictators. Kosovars paid a big price for freedom, there are several thousdan people missing even in today's day, several thousand killed in war time, and lot of girls raped. If Kosovo was Serbia then why serbian army kill their own people?
VIVA FREE KOSOVA

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Al, Cleveland Ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:46:58 GMT

You're fearmongering witht his article. Good article, but you're fearmongering WW3....

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

KB, Terre Haute, IN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:53:47 GMT

We fought a Civil War about 150 or so years ago because a part of our country (the USA, I mean) decided it didn't want to be a part of our country anymore. The rest of us said, "nope, can't do that," and we, together, killed more Americans than ever died in any other war we've been in because everyone in it was an American and forever would be. We're still together, and the losers are happy to be here. Anybody remember this precedent? And the person who mentioned Texas and Southwest deciding it had enough Mexicans to rejoin Mexico has a valid point. When are we going to stop being such hypocrits and leave long-decided borders alone? So you don't agree with your neighbors? Well, Johnny Reb and Billy Yank can good naturedly, and sadly, too, reflect on old times and both laugh and cry about them. But no one wants to try to refight that argument, and it looks like the innocent cause of that war is about to become our next president. Think about it and let's support a few more status quo situations. We'll save lives and money, ours and others.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

pellazg ilyrian — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:02:33 GMT

We are not considering the fact that the albanians have been living in Kosovo for around 4000 years. Serbs came to Dardania(Kosovo) only 1300 years ago.Tha serbian arrogance should calm down and think a bit

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bill, Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:04:15 GMT

I will propose that the Southern States succeed from the Union. Will Bush support this? BTW we do not want California. And the best part is getting rid of New Jersey. Sorry northerners you probably do not want New Jersey either.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

RUBERT MERRITT — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:06:06 GMT

I WONDER WHAT THE U.S. WOULD DO IF THE SOUTH WANTED TO HAVE IMDEPENDEMCE FROM THE UNION--HERE COMES A NEW SHERMAN AN WOULD BURN THE WHOLE SOUTH DOWN AGAIN AN KILL ANYONE WHO STOOD UP FOR THE SOUTHS FREEDOM????

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Rich,ont,Canada. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:07:04 GMT

Seems to me that in regards to all the violence, hypercrisy,greed,warmongering and not to mention cheap talks no one has an answer to anything.Talk is cheap....Im going to to make it simple religion and resources are the two ingredients to all conflicts.While there always the lesser of two evil for everything people or nation will always choose a side despict who has credibility.Lets go back to war world 1 and 2 we had to deal with Nazism which we had to contained then along comes a bear which is communism anybody ever thought of what the outcome would have been if things had ended in another outcome?Im proud to be a Canadian we are the most multi ethinc country and we happen to get along pretty well even when we have our differences !We should be a perfect model for any nation or goverment looking to stabilized a conflict.
P.S those last two great wars, Our nation wasn't given credit when credit was due!I recall some stories from german veterans how they feared fighting the Canadians in battles perhaps we could be the sleeping giant some nation miscalculated if push comes to shove?Then again we as a nation are more interested in solving problems and doing our duty bringing about peace.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

pellazgian Ilyrian — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:10:24 GMT

Dear Serbian Milo.It seems to me you are describen what serbs did to the albanians(dardanians, ilyrians) during 86 years of occupations.Read some objective history

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Rakeem — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:15:56 GMT

how can u say Kosova is Serbian .. when u have maps that show that Kosova is the oldest country in Balkan ... Serbians are Russian Gipsys so plzzz :D ,long time ago the unjustice was made to this country when they separated the Kosova from Albania remember ..

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

TEENY TAR FLORIDA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:30:20 GMT

JOHN LENNON SAID IT BEST."ALL WE ARE SAYING IS GIVE PEACE A CHANCE".

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Daniel B. Ogden, Utah — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:30:35 GMT

Let's not forget that if not for the Albanian joint venture with the Nazis during WWII in the massive ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Serbs in Kosovo, there would not be an Albanian majority there today. It is an even greater shame that the muslims have continued a systematic process of ethnic cleansing with a wink and a nod from NATO during the past eight years. As much as I love being an American, I have to admit, that in this case Serbia and Russia are in the right. Bush was irresponsible and reckless, and demonstrated extremely poor judgement in recognizing Kosovo's claim for independence.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

john doe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:30:47 GMT

as far as I am concerned,who cares what happens in the east,let them kill eachother,maybe they will all die.fight for their own freedom,spill their own blood,as our fathers did in our own revolutions and civil wars.why do we have to be the defenders of freedom in the east?who cares,our noses are stuck up everyones keaster,and it is time to worry about our homeland,who cares about russia,who cares about the muslims.let them kill eachother until none are left,the world will be a better place.the problem with us is we don't mind our own buisness.we have enough trouble in our own homeland,problems of our own that need to be addressed,if our founding fathers were here ,i doubt a polotician in office today would be in office tommorow.including bush,who blatently stole the presidency with the assistance of his brother in fl.We have a lot of crooks in our own back yard.stealing our freedom one step at a time.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Philip, Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:38:29 GMT

I long for the day that the United States stops deciding what is good for the rest of the world. Stay home, mind your business, and don't stick your nose in places you don't belong unless it directly concerns you. The whole world will be better off for it. If whole countries want to exterminate each other, or anything else they are going to do, let them. This is thier history, and culture,it's who they are and that will not change just cause thousands of american soldiers go there for a few years, or you drop a few hundred tons of bombs on them. All it does is make the US look like a retarded giant and doesn't accomplish anything other than adding to your debt and filling graveyards.

When the declaration of independance was being penned, it didn't say, 'And liberty and Justice for All and the right to interfere with whoever the flavor of the day country is'.

We've had enough headaches caused by the United States in the name of 'freedom', and 'democracy'. The United States has stopped being the 'good guys' that they were in World War 2. Now it's the country that is viewed with suspicion because everyone just knows that every step they take is driven by self interest,Greed/Profit.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ric In CT Bridgeport CT — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:38:34 GMT

Shame on the German Govt. for recognizing Kosovo..what is happening to Serbia today is what happened to millions of germans after WWII in Silesia,Pomerania,Prussia & the Sudetenland..while should people lost the homes they have had for centuries because of the actions of a dictator.."Collective guilt" Also someone in the State Dept needs how to count..Albanians with two votes in the UN..what a joke!!! meanwhile we alienate Serbs,Croats,Bulgars,Greeks,Russians etc etc..this is just another example of mis-guided American foreign policy..Woodrow Wilson lied to the American people & intervened in WWI,rather then letting the Euros fight to a stalemate..this produced Hitler & WWII..instead of supporting Kosovo we should be helping Romania recover Moldavia,help Greece recover Ionia & northern Cyprus and help 25 million Kurds establish a real nation...will the US support Arab rule in Israel when,not if they become the "ethnic majority"???
Two years after 9/11 a boatload of 100's of Haitians landed in downtown Miami in broad daylight..so much for Homeland security!!...and its looks as if our State Dept is just as incompetant!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

elizabeth — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:44:06 GMT

Anti-American rants are sad. Britain and other countries also have recognized Kosovo's decision to be independent. Mr. Putin threatens to aim missiles at the Czech Republic and Poland but a lifetime or two of Russia occupation and bullying hasn't stopped those countries from joining NATO. Putin isn't going to have it his way, regardless his threats.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Katarina G., Sydney — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:48:30 GMT

The Albanian above said:"Kosovo was never birthplace of Serbia, despite what Serbs claim."

Falsifying history will get you nowhere. And it won't help you when the distribution of power changes in this ridiculous world.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Art H, Boston, MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:58:32 GMT

I think this secession of Kosovo from Serbia, and the recognition of that act by the US and some European nations, sets a dangerous precedent for the future.

This is very much akin to say Cubans in Florida declaring portions of Florida as say "Greater Cuba" or California/Texas being declared as "Greater Mexico" and so on and then several countries jumping in and making such declarations, "official".

Also, why keep on using terms like the "Orthodox religion" and so on ? "Orthodox" is simply a denomination. The religion is "Christian". So yes, this act creates a Muslim sector within Europe and if past history is any indicator, will lead to the kind of situation that took place in Afghanistan. As we know, the current Taliban and Al Qaeda were warm hearted buddies of ours, in the not too distant past. Until they turned around and hurt us - badly.

Our current warm hearted muslim buddies, the Kosovars, whom we are supporting against the Christian Serbs, will turn against us in the not too distant future.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

dus chicago makedonec — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:00:05 GMT

FIRST OF ALL PEOPLE NEED TO LEARN HOW TO SPELL WHEN THEY DECIDE they want to place a comment. america is deffinitely asking for it. why support the albanians they want to take over everywhere the same in macedonia they want to take part of it and they already have. i love russia at this point like someone else said russia is the strongest nation now. america is broke stupid and oblivious. why leave solders in iraq to die and have grieving families. U.S. only wants to take control of the oil fields. i would like to see the US try that in russia. putin should stay strong behind the serbians and dont give albanians shit. US has no idea what they are doing with this.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bohdan Szejner — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:04:40 GMT

Giving independence to a province of a sovereign country, especially to a heart-province, was one the greatest blunders in mankind's history and it was perpetrated by Ivy league scholars! How can Ms. Condoleezza Rice been so naive? Will Louisiana, Hawaii, or Texas be next. Will Alaska claim it's independence with Russia's "recognition. People! Go back to school and relearnd the basics of Realpolitic! Mow can America be so dumb?!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

J.D. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:08:09 GMT

For Milan from " Republic of srpska ",that's also illegal,you can't ask for independence because said republic was forcefully built by radovan karadzic, (lower case letters in his name on purpose )by chasing other nationalities out of the area. The area is part of Bosnia and Hercegovina and it will always be that!! Population of that area was mostly Muslims prior to genocide imposed by serbs. So by stating that you will not just lay down and play dead,you are already dead and it's just the matter of time before you finally realize that. That republic is run by criminals and war lords and that never lasts. So be quiet and consider yourself lucky that you are not one of the people chased from their homes and have to live in exile.

J. D. Minnesota

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jola fl — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:15:42 GMT

now everybody in the world must know,US is against terrorism not muslims like iraq,and other middle east cuntries pretend.what kosova has been through ,like killing babies in the womb ,poisining children with poision gas at school,cutting people alive and sawing with needles their body again.this reminds nothing but holocaust.check kosova 1981.we have to stand up and show russia and everybody else war is not the answer,and if anybody that wanna be miloshevic and do what he did ,then i am sorry we not gonna play dead ,we gonna fight him and GOD is gonna be with us for PACE and FREEDOM.thank you.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Charlie, Germany — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:17:24 GMT

Was it Moral to encourage the break-up of another state? Did Serbia do enough to prevent this? Just how much did Russia contribute to help satblize the region? And the rest of Europe??? We all are to blame for what becomes of this situation. There sure is alot of finger pointing but not enough solutions.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

NATASHA FROM DETROIT — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:24:17 GMT

I am a Serbian-American woman and let me tell you, NO ONE understands what Kosovo is to Serbia. I was born in America but my blood is Serbian and we will ALWAYS fight for Kosovo. KOSOVO IS SERBIA. Over half of Texas is Latinos, do you think that the US Would support the Latinos if they asked for independence?
It's not a matter of war, or violence or fighting, but this world has to understand that you cannot go into a country, even with a majority, and declare independence. This is illegal, Kosovo will never be independent, in the hearts of Serbs, it will always be ours no matter what. RIP Czar Lazar & Milos who fought for our land. I will go at it anytime anywhere with anyone, this is a Serbian province and will always remain that way.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:29:31 GMT

Wow,

it is surprising to see that most people here do understand that recognizing Kosovo is a big mistake.

First, to set the record straight, I am Serbian, since that should be noted when considering my points. I lived in the US for 13 years, went to college there and some of my best friends are Ameircans. I had a good career as well and then moved to Europe (which I consider a very poor version of America). I consider US my second home.

But the actions of the US government in the past few years borders on pure stupidity, thanks to George W. Bush. It is sad that the Americans have elected an intelectual criple to lead them. He has destroyed American credibility to the point from which it will be very difficult to recover. Everywhere I travel I here people lash out on the US, mostly because of Iraq, where million people lost their lives. And we all know that Saddam was an animal, but he does seem like a better option to what we have on the ground now.

In terms of Serbia and the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, the tragedy is that the US (under direct German influence) blindly sided with one side and went against the other. Don't get me wrong, Serbs have killed and committed horrible crimes. But so did Croatians, Bosnians, Albanians etc. Milosevic was an animal and most Serbs hate him more that you will ever hate him. Most of you think that Milosevic was a Serbian nationalist. He was a communist apparatchik who only wanted to gain and keep power. He did not give a damn about Serbs. He let Serbs get butchered in Croatia just because he did not want the world to think that he is supporting Croatian Serbs. He allowed bombing of Bosnian Serbs adn let them fight on their own. So he was a communist pig, who just wanted to grab money and power with his family and friends.

But the reason why this has happened is because Germany rushed to recognize Croatia, despite the fact that about 28% of the population was Serbian and they had serious problems with independant Croatia. You must remember, that after Jews, Serbs were the most persecuted people by the Nazis. Croats, during this conflict have sided with Hitler from the start and formed independant Croatia, headed by Ante Pavelic. Just one thing about Pavelic - Hilter, in 1942, had to call Pavelic and order him to relax the butchering of Serbs and Roma, since Germans were disgusted by their acts. So imagine how the Serbs felt about independent Croatis in 1990 when only 45 year before that people were slaughtered. 18% of Serbs lost their lives in WWII.

So now you wander why did Germany do that? Germans and Austrians (not all of them off course), hate Serbs because of the assassination of the Archduke Ferdinand by Gavrilo Princip, a man who Serbs consider one of their greatest heros. He did that to free the people of Bosnia from the Austro-Hungarian empire. Two months after that, WWI started, where 36% of Serbian population lost their lives. One of the greatest national tragedies any nation underwent. The great, powerful empire attacked Serbia and started one of the greatest slaughters in the history of human kind. The whole Europe was in flames and Serbia and Europe won. That is why Germans and Austrians could not wait to get back at Serbia. When Germany reunited, that was the first thing on their agenda, the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, which they saw as a Serbian state. All preparation by the Croatian, Albanian and to be honest, some Serbian nationalists, went on in Germany.

Kosovo is just a continuation of this same policy. To bring Serbia down to her knees. To show here where her place really is. This not about democracy, about human rights, this is about old unsettled scores. Anyone who has anything to do with high-end business or politics, understands that the world is still about power, interests and greed. It is not about decent people and their desire to live freely. Just ask Iraqis what they think.

So now that we have that out of the way let see why Serbs really want Kosovo. This province is the poorest part of Europe, with highest illiteracy rates, horrible treatment of women, and rampant human and drug trade. Most of Serbs, i would say more than half of them, including myself, have never been to Kosovo.
So why care? Mr. Holbrook always calls this a Serbian myth?!? But was is Alamo? Is Alamo real? Is Alamo a myth? Is American Civil Was a myth, Americans just invented it as a nice little story. Is American constitution a myth? Or are all these 'myths' at the core of the American national psyche? One thing i have to say to Mr. Holbrook: nations are built on these 'myths'. National identity comes from a group's sense of belonging to places and events. And Kosovo Battle was very real and it sits in the epicenter of the Serbian national identity. That is why so many otherwise pragmatic, rational, beer drinking, fun loving, and sometimes obnoxious Serbs, including me, are willing to die for it. And I am a peaceful person who refused to serve in the Serbian army because Milosevic was running the country.

So how did they sell Kosovo independence to you? First they bombed Serbia, and today, when one reads the news, the reason is Serbian ethnic cleansing of Kosovo. Serbia and Milosevic's police did kill many Albanians. They were killing the guerrilla fighters and often went after their strongholds in many villages in Kosovo. Were they nice? No. But when are policemen nice when someone kills their own. Did they abuse human rights? Yes. Was it a genocide like Albanians portrayed it? As much as Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians. Remember, Germans are the ones who have executed the real genocide, and now they need the spotlight on someone else. I don't think so. So was that action decent? no it was ugly, but then any civil and guerrilla war is. Serbs are to blame, but Albanians are to blame as well. But again, Serbia was using the exact same methods that the Israelis are using against Palestinians, short of forced settlements. I don't say it just, but when someone shots at your police, you retaliate. Remember Waco? Did anyone punish FBI or American government for this? No, American government said it was necessary. And do you know how did the bombing of Serbia start in 1999. Because they found 45 bodies of Albanians in the village of Racak. Do you really think that if the Serbian special forces (not a fun bunch) really killed all these people, that they would not hide the bodies? As they did many times before? But this was used as an excuse to start. And why did Serbian police go to Racak? Because two days before that, KLA, the Albanian gerilla led by Hashim Tachi, the current prime minister, attacked Serbian police. And attacked the fighters who wre hiding, like cowards that they are, within women and children. And that same Thaci is today George W. Bush's best friend, and the most respectable democrat in Europe, telling Serbs to stay in Kosovo and not to worry. And his nom de guerre was 'the Snake', becuase he and his KLA fighters were ambushing Serbian civilians and then each time our police came around he fled.

So then NATO came into Kosovo and set up their mission there. And the US built Bondsteel base. The largest US base in this part of the world. On Serbian soil?!? But OK, we said the UN and all nations are for this, so we will take this humiliation. And what did NATO do in these years since 1999? Unemployment is at 40%, drug trafficking is the business number one (there is so much drugs in Belgrade now that you can get on every corner), and human trafficking is the norm. NATO soldiers spend most of their money on whores and drugs. I encourage you to find one of the returning soldiers from Kosovo to see what they think. I tell you, you will be shocked by what these people have to say.

So in 9 years there was no progress. And the resolution 1244 clearly states that first there must be conditions on ground and then the status of Kosovo will be considered. And just remember 2004 when thousands of Albanians have killed and expelled Serbs and other minorities because they want independence. When they torched many Serbian medieval churches which were protected by UNESCO.

And what did the West do (not all of you, Spanish and Greek governments obviously have more sense)? They rushed the solution and allowed Albanians to proclaim independence. And now we have 2 Albanian states, both almost 100% Albanian, and alsmot 100% muslim. Very smart, in the middle of Europe. How long do you think it will take for them to ask to be united? One year? Five? What about Albanians in Macedonia, who have already demonstrated that they can take apart Macedonia overnight? How about Serbs in Bosnia? You think they will not ask to leave Bosnia and join Serbia? Why not? Their case is clear.

So they have opened the Pandora's box. You are greatly underestimating Serbs and their ability to take pain. Lot's of pain. I was a moderate guy in politics and was always voicing my opinion against hard-core Serbian nationalists. But now, I am starting to believe that the Germans have done it. They have turned the whole Western world against Serbia. And Serbs are cornered. Like a little animal surrounded from all sides. But we were here before, against very cruel enemies, and have persevered. We have saved our way life, our church and national identity (yes Mr. Holbrook, our 'myth'), and we will defend it again. It may take 1 year, 5 years, or 50, but Kosovo will be ours, through diplomacy or war, that we know. Even if we all have to die for it, cause without it, we are dead anyway.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eric Lafayette, Louisiana — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:31:02 GMT

Russia? Do you really want to fight a Conventional war with us!!!This from A CAPTAIN IN THE US ARMY...Please BRING IT ON...I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR this FOR YEARS...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Emmitt Kelly, Gorham, Maine — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:33:08 GMT

When the allies landed at Normandy (ever hear of it Pat?) the russian army was already well on it's way to Berlin---they were blowing the german army away and most historians are of the opinion that they (the russians)would have continued, with that million and a half man army, to roll all the way to the french coast. Most of europe COULD be very fluent in Russian right now if it wasn't for the fact that the other allies got there first and took most of western europe back from germany before the russians got there. We stopped at the gates of berlin to let the russians take it-----many historians also agree that this was a deal previously arranged by the allies. Our political hacks want the American people to believe that it was the might of the USA which turned the tide of war------and it was----economic power, not military power, which fueled the armies af all the allies in one way or another. We did not fight or "beat" the russian army in WW2.
Sorry about the short history lesson. My point is, most of the differences between the Russians and the USA have been politically manufactured and created mostly in the rarified atmosphere of Washington. No other country on the face of the earth more closely resembles the USA than Russia. It is a huge country, rich in natural resources, multi-ethnic, multi-religious. It's people are for the most part warm, caring, hard working, industrious people. Like us. Like we the people here in the good old USA. Yes----we have some trash-----they do too. But we are far more alike than different.
Don't believe everything you hear----especially on the tube. Use your brains----think about this stuff. It is very important right now because as much as we are proud of our country the majority of the world hates us and has an opinion of us that is far different than our own. And Pat, you can believe me when I tell you that any war with Russia would be the worst mistake we and mankind in general ever made.
Have a good day all.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bobby, Fairbanks,Alaska — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:33:25 GMT

I only have one thing to say.Recognize kosovo today and be ready to recognize the Basque republic within Spain,quebec in Canada,independent Hawaii,Alaska,hey maybe California,since there is more Hispanics there.Haven't we learned anything from history? Strength thru unity,not divide and conquer

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sophie, Plymouth, Michigan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:34:07 GMT

In September 1998 in the village of Ratish, located in Decan, Kosovo - Two of my female cousins age 17, and 16 were raped by Serbian Soldiers wearing masks in front of their Father and two uncles. After they were done comitting these crimes, they're Father's were killed execution style, as the rest of the family hid in the woods. Long story short, My Family were peaceful people who did not deserve the fate that met them. How soon we forget.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Gabrielle Nikolin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:34:35 GMT

Any time geopolitics rears its ugly head you can be sure its about money. This isn't any different. This is not about Christians and Moslems or historical value. Nobody is talking about the real reason Kosovo is important. Kosovo has the richest mineral resources in all of Europe west of Russia worth billions of dollars. Kosovo produces gold, silver, pure lead, zinc, tin, iron, lignite, cadmium, 17 billion tons of coal, has oil reserves, and is one of Europe’s largest resources of copper. It has mineral springs and thermo electric power stations. What a cache cow for Islamic terrorists whose Saudi lifeline is quickly drying up! This is why partition is unacceptable to the ex KLA-Kosovo Albanian government. Without the mines in northern Kosovo it is not worth fighting for. Why are we fighting Moslem insurgents all over the world and then sleeping with the enemy in Kosovo? Is the USA prostituting its influence in exchange for mineral rights?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Linda — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:40:54 GMT

From a woman's perspective, it's awful to read all these vile and hateful comments. Atrocities and genocides, like what happened in the Balkans, spring from hate-filled hearts.
What would your mothers say?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Natalie from MI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:46:35 GMT

People keep talking about what Serbs do to Albanians but nobody ever seems to talk about what Albanians do to Serbs. My Uncle lived In Serbia, until he was attacked and killed and my cousin was raped and her brother was held gunpoint. When the bombing campaign began back in 2000 with Clinton, you think they were bombing military targets for 3 months? How do we know, we werent there. But my relatives were there. A hospital was bombed, a nursery full of newborns was bombed, innocent Serbian villages were bombed. Children were killed. Some bombs even went off into Italy and Greece. And this is not genocide? No, America will never admit to having committed these attrocities in Serbia because America, don't get me wrong I live here, but nobody should go into anyone's land and killed innocent people. Kosovo is a part of Serbian heritage always has been and always will be. We won't give it up. If America is the first one to stand behind Kosovo's independence, then they will have to stand behind everyones independence. And countrys like Serbia and Russia will always be there to defend their homeland and fight for it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

maksim tsionskiy Hollywood Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:46:58 GMT

I am against exterminating people at any country, but it needs to be done in way that don't divide the country. We have no right to go in somebody country and tear it in two halfs and give independance,that is so wrong, its illegal and breaks international law. We need to have international force to protect people. there need to be somekind of mediator for both serbian and albanian side, but country can't be interfered like that either. Kosovo is part of Serbia and always will be. We have no right to recognize that.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

yola fl — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:47:50 GMT

i am sorry for you serbian milo whatever .you are an ignorant .isuggest you read more and see who is an immigrant you serbians or albanians.albanians are 2 million in kosova and you serbians 200.000.name of the streets and cities are in albanian language etc.now everybody in the world must know US is against terrorism and not muslims.what kosova has been through reminds you nothing but holocaust,kosova 1981.how you gonna feel if mexicans want TEXAS to be a country ,exactly the same way the albanians feel when serbia invade them and called them their country. they mistreated albanians .killed them,and wanted them to leave the country ,homes and everything .because kosova is beautiful and rich in oil and minerals.we have to tell russia and everybody else war is not the answer.people in the world deserve PACE and FREEDOM.that is what we all have to agree on.GOD is gonna be with us.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

rido,new york city — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:53:39 GMT

i want to respond to some of the russian loyalist,if russia is that strong and powerfull,how come their republics former ussr republics seperated,and we talking about a same people russian speaking people slavic people,russia is dead history,god bless USA and europe.i was in kosovo after the 1999 war which nato bombed the serbia,russian troops were in some parts of kosova,their conditions were so poor,they were bagin people for cigaretes,and food.they are the history for US and europe.how come than if russians loved and cared about serbs,why did leave kosova after NAto troops took over kosova.their is no more russian troops in kosova.kosova was the last part of former yougosllavia left to be separeted,oh i forgot now is vojvodinas turn.and it is not about realigion,realigion does not have to do anything with the former yougosllavia.sllovenia,croatiaare roman cathoics and serbs are orthodox christians how come the killed so many catholics,by the way they do not celebrate the same chrismas as the rest of world,their chrismas is jauary 7.and if you know the history of the world constantine the great(324 a.d) was illyrian today albanian,was born in nissau this part now was illyria but sllavic people when they came from carpats russia invaded this illyrian -europian land,and took over that part which is under serbia now.constantine the great called the priest from christendom in the conference of nicea todays istanbol,to put the bible together.so please do not talk about realigion that has to do something with this.than mother theresa etc.by tha way if you read the holy quran 27 seven times jesus christ is mentioned more than mohamed.the whole chapter is named after his virgin mother mary,also hi is well known through albanian as ISA or jesus,lots of albanians the have that name,so we are more christians than the slavic people,we never killed or massacre christians brothers or muslim brothers,actually if you read the history only albanians saved the jews from nazi army douring the second war world.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Franky — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:59:47 GMT

Why does America feel it is necessary to always stick its nose into other countries business? Further more why are we trying to back muslims who in the same breath will turn around and fly jets into our buildings once they are free from the powers that keep them in check out side the US?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Milan, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:00:04 GMT

Albania has been recognized by experts and analysts the world over for years now as the window or gateway into Europe for al-quaeda, mostly funded by Scandinavian and Afghan heroin sales. Is this really what anyone in the US stands for? The truth hurts, too bad it's not on CNN. Anyone who isn't Albanian or Serbian shouldn't offer a CNN/US Media drenched opinion. Read the world news, find online links to local papers where this is happening. It's annoying to hear 'Well we gotta stand up to Russia again compadre'. That's not what it's about, it's about the US supporting yet another terrorist cell that won't be investigated because someone can never admit they're wrong.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Arben, Prishtina KOSOVA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:07:55 GMT

Hello there I would like to tell my opinion on this as well. This is why USA is so great about. You have this wonderful right of expressing your opinion and all of you who say bad things about USA please take a second look at what you are doing. In no other country in the world can you say bad things about your own country and not be penalized. Ok lets say you live in Russia and say something bad about Putin and forget about publishing it. We can say whatever we want about Bush, Clinton Kennedys etc and not get punished at all in contrary we get different opinions and that is what made us be a Super Power and will be in future because we have something all these other superpowers trying to be don't have. We have the freedom and that freedom you can not take or enforce on anyone no matter how big or small that country is.
Enough ssaid about that now lets talk business (politics is business). After 9/11 Us was in a bad position. We were used to go to airplane terminals and say goodbye almost at the door. We do not have that luxury anymore. We go into buildings and waste 30 min sometimes to get checked out if we are terrorists. Well that is no coincidence that is happening. They are not looking just for fireamrms that we can purchase anywhere and we all know that. What are we looking when planes and other stuff we import comes to our shores is nuclear stuff that has leaked into terrorist hands in purpose or not from Russia. Who else is selling nuclear stuff out there if not?
The USA has been selling arms to Iraq and Iran for as long as we can remember and they were giving us cheap oil in return so a double win for USA. Of course that business is no good for Russia and they had to do something. Who do you think is building the nuclear power plant to Iranians now. The russians had a billion dollar project to do the same thing to Iraq but we blew it. The russians are rich in natural gas but still need to sell arms and gas so who can you sell gas (Europe) and arms Iraq Iran and other rich money nations. Hell if Islamic nations are terrorists why are we USA selling billions of arms just a few weeks ago to Saudi Arabia. It is all business and we have it confused by some people trying to throw religion as an excuse. We help Israel because half if not more of business in NYC alone is owned by jewish people who support it with money nomatter if we help them or not and its is their right to get the freedom at any cost. Just like it was our right to get freedom from UK. Why we do not help Palestine well it is not because of Religion but because of money ifthey had enough they can buy arms and get their own.
Now about Kosova and Europe. USA wants to sell arms to that area and it interferes with Russians interest of why USA is going to make so much money. Hell we will sell those arms that they must subscribe to a "monthly service fee" right?What was russia doing in Cuba and how did we feel when their warheads were ponted towards US. That is why we developed the missile protection system which cost us a fortune and now it is outdated and we should recoupe the cost somehow so why not sell it to europe rather than Middle east. hahaha Onthe other end Russia has been creating a monopoly over control of selling gas and oil to Europe and frankly not USA and Europe like it. How do we feel when Opec raises prices? Right we will all go to fight in Iraq if price goes to 5 a gallon. Well they are already been paying 5 a gallon in europe for a long time because they get their gas by liter and euros which are stronger than US dollar.
Well guess what US is doing about this with the European allies. They went to Afganistan not to spend a 2 billion dollar bomb to blow a tent like we read in our daily newspaper but because of opium which our companies will use to make drugs and which happens to be a major business. Hell yeah you can not just have oil and arms business you have to diversify your portfolio right? That is the main reason for Afganistan. By the way we sold arms to this country so they can drive Russians away too and US succeeded. USA went to Iraq for same reason as Afganistan but of course we have to use 9/11 as excuse otherwise why don't we go to Korea which has said they have nuclear weapons. Well they do not have anything else for us businesswise only trouble that is why.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Neo Politicus — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:08:15 GMT

Serbs are nothing but fascist war criminals - and Russia is only doing this to create a second Cold War for their own internal political reasons. Journalists who gloss over this are hacks.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Randy, Thief River Falls, Mn. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:08:20 GMT

You know, Alot of you that talk the talk about going to war need to just shut up. You've never served and don't support the ones were in. I served over 20 years in the Marines.
It's time the politicians at home took care of this country The Good old USA and remember what made us great and quit worrying about everything else. My hat is off to you Tim Browning as you've been their and have saw the many sides to the story. Thank you for you time in service.
We just had an illegal alien hit a school bus killing our children here in Minnesota. How about jumping into that. Solve that problem. As for my experience in life meeting people all over the world most people want to be left alone and just live their life. The problems come over power.
Dan in Portland
People that have fought for freedom and the love of this country know about gun rights, its a freedom. I'm all for it, people like you want to take that away. You need to go back to what ever country that you came from and quit sucking on this great Nation that your so good at running down.

Robert from Oakdale, Semper Fi

John Masterson Seattle
You dont need to sell the military short. Their is nothing better than a young American in Uniform. In the Marines we went with what we had and did the job better than anyone else. Their is no problem with the military. Only the politics that are running the country. If its out their they can handle it if they are truely unleashed. If the politicans could understand what war is Our men and wemon in service would not have so many casualties.
Officers and NCOs of C 1/5
Lessons learned , Operation "Hue City
However, it is our collective belief that the life of one Marine is more precious than ten structures, one hundred homes, schools,churches,shrines,shopping malls, or any other building known to man.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Billy — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:12:09 GMT

While I have read ALL commnents-postings to the hour, I can only think of one common thread running through all of them. The writers of course, would NOT agree with me. BUT, if you read between the lines carefully and logically, you shall without a doubt notice that the "ignorance of the past, is still the STRONGEST disclaimer with regards to ALL of "both sides" commenst..It is truyla pity that NO ONE SEEMS TO REMEBER THE SIMPLE WORDS OF A GREAT AMERICAN POET-WRITER, that said/wrore: "You can fool some of the people all of the time-but, not ALL of the people ALL the time!"

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George Kowalski — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:12:58 GMT

The Russians are pointing their nuclear war heads at Czech Republic and Poland,regardless of the Radar and US warheads to be in Poland.Russians will always be dirt bags, i should know, i used to live in the communist state.Note,Poland and Czech Republic are under Nato at this time.They should not fear from from the Russians,ever.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

George Kowalski — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:13:27 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Rob H, Chicago, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:13:58 GMT

The US & other EU nations needs to think before they speak. It's all well & good to declare your support for Kosovo from half way around the globe, like the US has, but as a community of nations, we should think of what this declaration of independence will do to the nations bordering the Serbia/Kosovo region. These nations, Macedonia, Albania, etc. are already smaller & poorer nations & to think, when the violence really breaks out, as it most likely will because of pre-existing tensions, these nations will get an influx of Kosovar refugees. When the US foolishly bombed that area during the Clinton era, tons of people went over to Macedonia & US/UN reps promised to help in the care of these folks, but were extremely slow in doing so. Macedonia needs to focus on helping its own, not cleaning up after the messes of these unfortunate & unnecessary wars. In closing, the new learder of Kosovo was once a high ranking member of the KLA, which after 9-11, the US had as one of the major terrorist organizations in the world. This is who we are now backing? Yikes! Do your homework please.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Atlanta GA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:14:03 GMT

Serbia does not have any rights over Kosovo. It was never part of Serbia but part of Yugoslavia. Serbs nees to wake up and smell fresh coffee. They think if there is one Serb it belongs to Serbs, they think they can go around killing off people taking land, raping and not be held responsible. Kosovo people did not have any rights in their on land and it is time. Serbs chill you lost and soon enough you will lose Sandzak. Time for you to be punished for geneocide in Bosnia,Croatia and Kosovo has come.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Zach — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:14:06 GMT

Reading the above responses, its obvious that the United States illegally declared its independence from Britian a few years back. Oh - and to the person that compared it to Nevada breaking off from Cali, its "one land" ..... small suggestion. Open that map up a bit bigger. Take a look at the Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, Latin America... the United States, Canada, and Mexico are the ones that do not fit the normal way it is, not the other way around. Most countries in the world are sitting right next to each like states do in the US. (oh - and if Cali wants to break off - don't worry - the rest of us will not object.. that would mean we would have no problem getting our next warmonger in as President :) )

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Goran, New Jersey — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:16:37 GMT

We have proof that Iraq has weapons of mass destruction??? Where are They? The USA WARNED North Korea NOT to test their nuclear weapons, What did they do. They tested it anyway. 9 Trillion in debt and an army that is scattered all over the world and not to mention a very low number of applicants into the Military. Helping towel heads all over the world. KOSOVO IS SERBIA!!! To think Once the USA was the most powerful Nation. The Dollar is SHIT. People are BROKE, HUNGRY< HELP The people here!! and know YOU want to fight with RUSSIA, theres no chance. No one tells about the thousands of SERBS, WOMEN and CHILDREN that where slaughtered by Albainia Militants in KOSOVO. We acted in retaliation. DONT get me wrong, civilians should not be targeted during WAR.Also, SERBIA has been an ally during the 2 worlds wars. YOU BOMB CHRISTIANS, WHO HAVE DEFENDED EUROPE FROM MUSLIMS FOR CENTURIES. YOU HELP MUSLIMS. BRING ON WORLD WAR III.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

rido,new yor city,america — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:17:28 GMT

by,the way if we do not have police on the streets what happens,chaos, anarchy.thats why world needs UNITED STATES OF AMERICA to protect the globe from terorist and comunist people,thats why god is bleasing this country strongets and only superpower in the earth,best country in the world to live,freedom of everything.thats why america helps the other countries to liberate them from tyrans,thats why america is helping kosova to liberate them once and forever.go to russia and see if you have any freedom,why jews are leaving and almost left russia,and seeking refuge in the USA.why to much democracy.i tell you people america will always stand tall,and watch over the world for peace and prosperity,god bless USA

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jetace chicago — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:20:00 GMT

Why rely on allies and favorable sides when the thing to do is refer to history. It is a well known fact that the region was populated by albanians (Ilirans. Refered also as such in Shakespeare's plays)when around the 5th and 7th century the slavic barbarian tribes invaded. So historically speaking the alabian land was there well before the newcomers made it theirs. That land gave them a home and natural resources they got for granted by simply using brutal force. Now we live the era of civilization and yet the same rules aply for the settlers. They will never let Kosovo go, because truth be told the region is a gold mine of natural resources that is still pretty much full of supply. The economic reason is the reason behind the engine of serbian think tank and politics is the reigns trying to hold the wild horse back. And like a kid asking mommy or daddy for help they call the big muscle Russians(that have their political interests in the region)into play.
Kosovo has the right to be free just like the serbs have the right to be free. They have very good reasons and the whole world and mostly serbs should respect that and more. I think it is more than enough to be milked for nothing and used and abused for centuries. It is time for a poor Kosovo to prosper and be a respected country, respected for its everlasting strugle, respected for the immense desire to be free, a legitimate right that shoould not be granted by anyone, but should be just had, period

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Claude, Cape Town, South Africa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:25:33 GMT

Long live Vladimir Putin. Down with the Anglo-American Empire. Onward to Euro-Siberia. The world is tired of the American oppressors whose only goal is theft and grand larceny. Present Europe is just a puppet of the rulers of America. Maybe it is time to start looking at Russia as a full partner for Europe since in a few years it will be supplying most of that continent's oil and minerals. The future of Europe is toward the East, not decadent, bankrupt America and its multicultural disaster. Go, Putin, Go!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Claude, Cape Town, South Africa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:31:57 GMT

I have just sent you a message, so what is the problem or is this site just for yes men? Where is freedom of speech?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bob, Sandiego, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:39:06 GMT

The Russian are trying to cover their ass again. They have bullied so many nations around and supported dictorship and communist regimes all over the globe. Look at what happened to Southeast Asia thirty years ago when the Russian armed the North Vietnamese. Two millions Vietnamese die and millions more where displaced all over the world. I hope the Russian government all go to hell where they can meet up with their buddies, Marx and Lenin.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tim, UK — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:40:07 GMT

If all comments have to be approved before appearing here why have any of the above comments appeared? It would be far better if people kept their odd or ill-informed opinions to themselves!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jetace chicago — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:41:36 GMT

To Milo the Serbian,
Dear fellow human,
You used some pretty harsh language towards some people that left coments about Kosovo. You even called them ignorants too, which really makes you an expert: it takes one to know one. Go back to 5th grade and read the real history about who the real immigrants were. ALbanians were there even before the recorded history existed. Slavic invasion of the 5th and 7th century ring a bell?
Kosovo will be free! It is a human right and no one will ever change that. It is not a matter of who wants what, it is just a matter of time some blind by choise people will have to open their eyes and see the world for what it is.

Respectfully

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Anthony R, Yonkers ,NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:46:11 GMT

Kosova is free!!!! God Bless the U.S.A. and as a Roman Catholic Albanian i would like to say to Serbia get over it you people are a bunch of losers who lost wars after wars and the battle of kosova in 1389 wasnt just serbs you had Hungarians,Bulgarians,Albanians and other peoples from the Balkans!!!! as for the Russians mind your own biz you can barly take care of your own country

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sam, Blacksburg Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:47:00 GMT

Why should be supporting Kosovo, we can't be there for every country in the world just because they want independce, and no we can't have a war with russia this would ignite another world war with the US,France,Germany, Great Britian, and all the other western Countries vs Russia, probably most of the middle east, and possibly China, we would be stomped.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Scott, Denver, CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:47:15 GMT

Ahhhh, the moral equivalency granted to tyrants and murderers by the looney left. Let's debunk all these bad arguments at once shall we? 1) Of course the US wouldn't want to let Texas or Florida or any other state secede, but no one from NY or Illinois is sending armed forces to commit genocide aginst the Mexican-Americans in Texas or the African Americans in say Georgia. This situation is the end result of dictator Milosevic's armed forces committing genocide against the minority Albanians in Kosovo; 2) Vladimir Putin is nothing but a thug himself who has delusions of his own grandeur; his actions against independence have NOTHING to do with supporting the Serbs, it has to do with selfish interests in their own territory; unlike in the US where our states don't want to secede because they are treated as equals; there are regions that want to be separate from Russia because they are slaughtered like in Chechnya and other Caucuses provinces and because they are all treated as inferior states where Putin loyalists are installed to rule them rather than elected. 3) For years, our great looney lefties have argued how we haven't been "with our allies"; well we're with our historical allies, all of them, on this one; the people we are opposing are dictatorial regimes and those with selfish interests only. You can't have it both ways; blame us for going it alone and not being "with" our allies AND blame us when we are 100% with our key allies just because the nations that will never support our values or aims oppose us. The blame for this who situation goes to Milosevic for committing genocide against people who wanted their fair share of their nation. Everyone else opposing this is doing so solely for self-interest.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Eric Lafayette, Louisiana — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:47:55 GMT

Russia? Do you really want to fight a Conventional war with us!!!This from A CAPTAIN IN THE US ARMY...Please BRING IT ON...I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR this FOR YEARS...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tony, Anchorage Alaska — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:48:54 GMT

I think its a big mistake, and what the United States did was a big mistake, those people that are claiming there independance are the same kind of people, who masterminded the September 11th Terrorist attack in the United States. Muslims, in which are now claiming there independance, they are no different then any other muslim, who want nothing more but to put an end in the west for good. So, I guess claiming this soverign group of muslims, who at the time, europe had under control, during the Milosevic period of ethnic cleansing, which help keep everybody in europe, as well in other countries in peace, now breached themselves into more violence that is there to come. Furthermore, these kind of people more than 90 percent non christian, stirs up the crime rate in europe as well, or well make most of it, due to terrorist ties, with other muslims scattered around the world, not just that in that small province. I honestly think its a big mistake, and making more people, especially muslim fanatics to hate the west even more. Oh well, the bully always has the upper hand, in scenarios like this, until another bully wants to play the same game. Will see furthermore, how this kind of independance thing in Kosovo will forgoe, in the future, which will probably be more bledshed for them, as a result of more hatred that will be put on them, such as say Russia for example, which by rumors go, are strengething, there economic growth, one of the reasoning, from what I have been hearing in the grapevine, will over take the auto industry in some time to come. Oh well, no justice, no peace, as they say nowadays.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

E. Bacus, Md — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:49:02 GMT

Russia is a bully, ignorant Pat exclaims. Humm. Let's see.

We bombed Serbia probably to distract the public from Clinton's problems, and in the process we bombed (by mistake) hospitals, train stations, the Chinese embassy and killed who know how many innocent people.

We invaded Iraq, destroyed their infrastructure, have killed 100's of innocent people with our bombs, and have turned Iraq into a hell hole, all to secure and steal their oil (how do you think that the cost of the war has not materialized in rampant inflation as during the Vietname days?)

We are constantly provoking countries such as Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and China by sailing our war machines between China and Taiwan.

We have ignored the ABM treaty we had with Russia and are in the process of installing an ABM system at Russia's doorstep with the purpose of neutralizing Russia's missiles. I guess the next step after that will be to bomb Russia.

We are now playing the game of divide and conquer by encouraging separatist groups to form their own countries in the guise of democracy (as long as it is convenient to us).

I guess the only difference between us and Russia is that we always put a virtous spin on our aggression. We attack other countris for the sake of democracy. We test new weapons to save the world from toxic fuel, etc.

People like Pat should realize that we are the bullies; after all who can match our enormous power? The question here is how long other countries are going to tolerate this, what steps they will take to stop the new bully and at what point they will draw the line in the sand and say enough!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dan Negovanovic, Chicago, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:51:36 GMT

People, I am a U.S. citizen born in Serbia. I would like to thank the folks that posted comments on here who are actually informed about the Serb history and the facts If we look at the blog majority of the postings are people who are good and are not blinded by the media. Please remember that the Serbs have always been friends of the United States. The Serbs are still friends of the American people to this day, and are not blaming the American people in any way. We fought on the ally side in world war one & World War II. The Albanians, Croats, Slovenians, Muslims in Bosnia fought on the Fascist side. Serbia was a democratic kingdom prior to World War II, however thanks to Winston Churchill Yugoslavia was forced to become Communist. Those of you who need more fact you might want to read about "The Hallyard Mission" and there you will learn about an Amercian pilot Major Feldman speaking about how the Serbs rescued more than 500 U.S. pilots that were knocked down by the Germans over Serbia. Only to be later bombarded for 71 days by their grand children. Let's not forget that in March of 1991 there was 300,000 Serbians on the same streets of Belgrade trying to oust Milosevic, but guess what the U.S. said "No". U.S. goverment claims that they want to create democratic multiethnic states in the Balkans. How sarcastic is that! The only true multiethnic state was former Yugoslavia, now with the help of the U.S. and EU we have borders based on religion. Congratulations diplomats! U.S. and EU have consistently fueled the wars in the Balkans. Including this last debacle with Kosovo. Let's not forget that during the negotiations with the Albanians, Serbia offered them full autonomy. The U.S. continually interfered with the negotiations by making statements that they would give the Albanians indepependence. Makes it difficult to negotiate under those circumstances. Another fact that makes it more difficult to negotiate is that when you are negotiating with Albanias you are negotiating with Terrorists. Hashim Tachi is a terrorist supported by Osama Bin Laden, and that is a fact. Of Course that the Serbs will not be impressed with the U.S. goverment, based on the actions this government took in the last 20 years. The only question we don't know is why? Perhaps under world crisis is needed to bring this country out of the economic state it is in. Once again, I feel very good today reading the postings and realizing that most of the people that posted here think with an open mind and have not been blinded.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Steve North Tonawanda — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:57:00 GMT

Im tired of people saying this is a Christian/Muslim issue. Its instead an issue of one people suppressing, repressing, and violating another group of people. I commend the USA for looking beyond the severely flawed and caveman ideology of "sticking with your own" in this case Christians, and actually standing up to defend people perhaps not so much classified as "our own." Let justice, liberty and peace be all our own and fight for those things rather than ridiculing America for bombing murderous Christians. Shame on those who support anyone who torments another just because you can more closely affiliate yourself with and relate to the tormenter.

My last point is that the USA typically does not support separatist groups that are the aggressors and fall on the violent side of the conflict. Its one thing for a group to bomb, harrass, and instigate a nation, and its totally another, like Kosovo, for people to be the victims of bombing and aggression, and seek independence somewhat because of it. So the correlation between the USA and the state of Texas wanting independence are inaccurate because it fails to bring attention to the role the greater US would be playing against Texas for an accurate comparison to be made--which would be one that is continually bombing and repressing people within that state. So look at both sides...sure imagine if Texas wanted to break away--unimagineable, but then again, imagine if they were treated by the US as if they were Iraq or Afghanistan, and then you can better sympathize with the desires of those within Kosovo to enjoy their own liberty and peace outside of this larger aggressor.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

T Andrus Dallas Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:57:50 GMT

The ignorance of the American people amazes me. Do some research and you may understand what has happened in Kosovo. Kosovo at one time was Christian. Tito, allowed ethnic Albanians,"muslins" to migrate into Kosovo. The christians, over time, were forced from their homes and lands by intimidation, assualt, and murder. Serbian police and later, the military were sent in to halt the ethnic cleanseing by the muslins. Bill Clinton illeagally used Nato to bomb Serbia into submission, virtually destroying the infastructure of Serbia, and killing thousands of innocent people in the process. We helped the muslin steal Kosovo and to what reward? 911. Now Bush want's to reconize Kosovo as an independant muslin nation.
What happens when one of our states are so over run with foreign nationals and want to declare themselves independent of America? We need to get our own house in order before we start running other countries business.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Andreas Georghiou, Philadelphia, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:02:02 GMT

The historically and georgaphically challenged look at the Kosovo independence case and they see Democracy, Independence, Freedom, American flag waving and Clinton's image governing Clinton Boulevard in Pristina. The more knowledgable people look at Kosovo and recognize it for what it is: a violation of international law the prohibits changing of internationally recognized borders without mutual consent and the support of the UN; violation of security council resolution 1244; and a potentially very explosive precedent whereby minorities in an internationally recognized country group together and demand independence. Two world wars started at about the same georgaphical spot where the current kosovo issue has emerged. Spain, Greece, Serbia and Russia are right in refusing to recognize Kosovo. The US, Germany and the UK are wrong in encouraging Kosovo to declare independence.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

newark,nj — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:25:53 GMT

they wants be free .let them find it own way .there is nothin like by doing your self . i do support them becoming free. who entitle that land to anyone .aginst goverment law that it only to suppress human live to what they wants .keep then on top off us
rulling our money.nj free of washington DC.high tax,

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

RML, Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:27:06 GMT

I really believe we should not fell prey, We American should stayed out of this. We have more bigger issues to dealt with, such as our economy, the false war, and Health care. Russia is a superpower, they have the capability to carry nuclear war with anyone,even with our European allies, I believe, we should negotiate, and not to rush any support to Kosovo Independence that will alienate the Big Bear and his allies the would fuel another round of cold war. Lastly, We have to emphatize not symphatize the Serbs, Listen to both sides of the equations, Let's be fair!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

BornFree, Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:28:38 GMT

Let`s not forget that Russia celebrates how great they are by marching nuclear missiles down their main streets. Why would anyone be so bold? It`s an attempt to impress, except the only people impressed are themselves. This puts them into a league with North Korea, WILLING TO DO ANYTHING TO GET THEIR WAY. If Russia became the world superpower instead of the US, this planet would be in ruins. Everyone who is living free, probably owes the US for that in some way.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

john doe, chicago Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:30:00 GMT

Kosovo is the neo-cons pandora's box opened as a result of being thwarted by Iranian intelligence on their a bomb intentions. Surely the state department knows the significance of this geopolitical mess and didn't wander into this nightmare without a historical perspective or due to ignorance. This is the incubator of WWars. A legacy is being left for new adminstrations that guarrantees war and profit. Since when did the US fight for the rights of Moslems?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

tim, miami, florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:33:08 GMT

russia is a bully? we are the ones who are invading nations unilaterally. we are the ones that invaded korea, vietnam, and others for "democracy" i think you have it backwards people. we are the bully and we are clumsy at foreign policy. the new cold war will be our fault. that is why we need someone like obama in the white house. someone with forethought and the ability to speak well. shame on us for blaming russia.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Richard R — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:34:15 GMT

Let's see here. Russia has veto in the UN Security Council. So does the United States. Russia has nukes. So does the United States. Both have dug into the trenches over Serbia/Kosovo. It would be pointless for Russia to actually use force because then the US or someone else would likely reply in kind, and that brings us back to such wars as Vietnam (which one side, the Communists, won) and Korea (which stalemated) and Afghanistan (Western/Islamic victory over the Soviets). In all of those cases, the war was limited (more or less) to the countries in dispute, but such wars are a risky gamble. Any larger war, as people know, would result in such nonsense as Mutual Assured Destruction, in which both countries destroy each other with nuclear weapons. So wars essentially have to be limited or contained. Nonetheless, they can go on for years and be pretty bloody.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

cathy, St Paul — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:36:01 GMT

2000 years of religion and dictatorship. Why?
What are the current issues? The power plant needs alot of maitanence? People want to work...put them to work on the power plant then get the factories running, get people back to work so they can become productive. If they want to continue to fight over religion , dictatorship or the nieghbor who moved the fence 500 yrs ago, the US is not a playground monitor.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Richard R. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:37:36 GMT

To Dave: one minor nitpick. You mentioned that Russia "invaded every border countrys territorial rights in forming the USSR". I'm having a bit of trouble figuring out what territorial rights of the United States of America (which borders Russia in the Bering Strait) were violated by said formation. Otherwise, good point.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

JD, Rota Spain — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:38:20 GMT

Serbian Milo from Simi Valley has written the best response I've read over the last two pages. Well Done! I was born and raised in America and have come to the conclusion that most Americans (at least 90%) are Ignorant! Mr. Milo hit the nail on the head with his comments about Texas...it will soon be called "North Mexico", and California will soon become "East China". America, for the most part is a good country, but they don't seem to understand that other countries have their own way of life that should not be tampered with. America needs to take care of it's OWN boarders first, they need to take care of their own people first...THEN...if other countries need help we MIGHT lend a hand...not just go there and proclaim it as another territorial state..Hell, by now we need to modify our national flag and add 10 more stars since I believe we now have 60 states instead of 50.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Blaine, Houston — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:40:29 GMT

Vlad seems more in support of the United States than you are John,New York so if you hate america so much why don't you just leave it?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike, Brooklyn, New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:42:05 GMT

Why is a Serbian land such as Kosovo so important to the special interest groups within the US government? Well it is not like Iraq or Iran it doesn't have oil but in this case there are 2 reasons that I can point to in order to explain such a stubborn and blind submission to Albanian interests. Reason number one is further domination of that part of the world by building US military bases in Kosovo (all at taxpayers expense). In order to acquire all the resources in the world (a long term goal) and then to create a one-world government you have to have a force, which would enforce that world government. Since it is a "WORLD" government than US forces need to be placed around the world. Russians don’t have military bases in other countries. Now some will say it is not US but NATO. This misconception is very common to those who don’t understand that NATO is just a front that is suppose to make us feel as if it is not the US who is doing this but NATO. US is the major contributor to this false organization and it works behind NATO’s name to further its own interests. The second reason for US support of such Borat like characters (Albanians) is a beginning of new era in world politics where national sovereignty of each country is not protected by any international law and therefore it can be overruled by globalist American foreign policy. So now from this day, no country will be able to say "Hey this is our land you can't come in here" because as I mentioned before it is a "WORLD" government that is being created. In Iraq this is done through ideas of false patriotism that is being sold to the America people. The American children and the taxpayers, who will continue to die for an idea of literal world domination, always pay for this type of bloodthirsty American foreign policy. We Americans don’t want to occupy the world but our government is not an extension of our will but a corrupt conglomerate of occult and selfish interests. Hey I know what you are going to say: I’m just not patriotic enough, I don’t support the troops, I am a conspiracy theorist, anti-American terrorist….but say whatever makes you sleep at night while you cuddle with your illusions that we live in a free society

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

willard eversole — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:48:03 GMT

every one needs to be free,however america should understand that chairty begins in america.we cannot continue to meddle in other countrys internal afairs.we need to build up our military to where no other nation would even dare think of attacking us.we give away what should be used in the u.s.a.we should help struggling countrys but do it in a way that the people will benefit from it and require american people be there to make sure that those greed monsters cannot get their hands on it.dont forget the oil for food program that was turned over to those greed hounds who took the money and filled their own coffers.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

BruceB — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:48:20 GMT

"This, of course, is beside the raw fact that this rushed mass endorsement might very well prove to be a miscalculation of catastrophic proportions. "

Good observation Mr. Seya, however this is a nation still under the thumb of G.W. Bush after all so "miscalculations" are par for the course.
It could well date back to his brilliant decision to take someone like Condoleezza Rice, with Doctorate in political science specializing in Russian government, and place her in the middle east.
Russia has been sliding away from our side ever since.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Tim, Moravia, New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:49:13 GMT

I don't understand why the USA's giving a nod to Kosovo's independance is more important than fostering good ties with Russia. People are skipping history - or they don't know it. WW1 and ultimately WW2 and the cold war started over independence factions in that country. Kosovo's Muslim's in that region became SS Nazi's aand committed attrocities to Serbs in WW2. They all have a long, long history of getting at each other. Every person in my part of New York would like to know why the USA is so easy about wrecking relations with Russia over Kosovo. I grew up in the Cold War - it was nice for a few years in the 90's when the US and Russia were on warm terms. Kosovo is not worth it - I wish them luck - but this country needs to stop meddling in other people's affairs.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

DEP, Sacramento — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:49:35 GMT

Dear Peter Smith:

We can't even win a war against the "NON-MECHANIZED INSURGENCY" in Iraq. Just how do you propose we win a war against a "FULLY MOTIVATED, MECHANIZED, AND WELL TRAINED RUSSIAN ARMEY, AIRFORCE, AND NAVEY?"

We as American's seem to think it’s our right to force our beliefs and ideologies down the throats of the rest of the world! Who do we think we are? It is no wonder why the rest of the World hates us!

Unfortunately, for the United States the Russians will take this country over without ever firing a shot! How do you ask? - By purchasing it with the money it makes off Our oil addiction! To me your comments seem a little closed minded - kind of like a junkie telling the dealer who the boss actually is!

I profess my right to free speech “AS AN AMERICAN CITIZEN!” by stating this – “I think that you should think before you open your mouth Sir and the next time you write something please know your history a little better.

We as a Nation are no better than the Russians or any other Nation Sir. We have committed atrocities and have done things just as bad as the Russian or any other Nation! This is something “WE” seem to forget! When will we learn? And when will we learn to keep our nose out of the business of other Nation States? Unfortunately, probably when our nose gets bloodied in a real war!

I pray for our children!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

JR, Bellingham, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:54:41 GMT

Hey, can all this sabor rattling over Eastern Europe cease please? Will someone remind me why we are caring about this area? I understand independence and democracy and yadda-yadda-yadda, but let's get our priorities strait, people! We've got a war with no clear initiative, a country and president with little credibility, the man responsible for 9/11 still at large, and China owns a majority of our national debt! And you want to talk about Kosovo? Let the Russians deal with it. They seem better equipped, anyway with their quantities of oil reserves and well rested military; I've got a mortgage I've got to pay...

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Randall T,Oklahoma City,Ok. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:55:18 GMT

More to the point.Is it the power of Russia that should be our focus? Or the debauching of our own currency.To Quote Karl Marx "The best way to destroy the Captalist system is to debauch the currency"A Nation in a financial depression has no business waging war on any outside nations,but a firm commitment to stablize our currency on a global scale.
A super power is none other than a great stage hynotist and we the United States as the audience.We will never fight Russia or China in a military conflict.This is not part of the act.Referring to our Great Nation Lenin said "We will not have to attack.It(the USA)will fall like an overripe fruit into our hands"I will now count backward from three to one and you will wake up to your football game and go into a deeper trance..3,2,1.Goodnight

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

juan ganem, cartagena, colombia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:02:17 GMT

the balkans were the reason that ignited the first and second world wars... and history is about to repeat itself.. no matter how much rhetoric the simple truth is that the economic mess that the western powers are dictates that another mayor war must be fought.. and that´s God´s design for the future of humanity.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Greg, New Jersey — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:13:33 GMT

The majority of responses on this forum that were against the idea of a free Kosovo neglected the fact that under the Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic from the late 1980's to the late 1990's there was mass genocide and overall political oppresion against the people of Kosovo. The people of Kosovo deserved to be free. I fully support President Bush's decision to recognize Kosovo as a free and independent nation.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Daniel Voronezh Russia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:14:35 GMT

I'm not sure how many people that read this article speak Russian and are fluent enough to understand what Dimitry Rogozin said.
Translated correctly by someone who is unbiased and has an extensive knowledge of the Russian langauge, his statement would sound a bit different. Harsh, yes, but different.
He stated that if NATO were to take action outide of the ramifications set by the U.N., then Russia would be forced to use "brute force" and enforce what the U.N. has deemed a worthy way of dealing with this whole problem.
Reading between the lines of his statement, he was saying that Russia won't allow another "American Foreign Policy" completely ignore what the rest of the world has to think about the issue as we did when we invaded Iraq.
Now, it's not a warm fuzzy statement for America, I agree with that, but it is a wake up call. We aren't the ones here to decide how people should live. We have enough problems of our own.
I would also like to point out that it was not Vladimir Putin who made this comment, but the russian ambassador in Serbia who made this comment. And this statement has gone unsupported by the Kremlin.
I think that one of our main problems here is a failure in communication and arrogance of our own people who think that it is our divine right to dictate the way other people live throughout the world.
God bless us all through this one.
From a worried american citizen abroad.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Peter Jovic — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:31:56 GMT

To dan the proud American:
I could not agree with you more
As a canadian i travelled thru-out the us in
the past 30 years and met many wonderful american people.
Unfortunately their knowledge of the world is very limited and opinions one sided.
They are a very patriotic people but unfortunatelly listen
to their inept leaders who back big corrporations and do
stupid things to serve their own selfish goals

American people were very proud and reliable and all they
wanted is a roof over their heads, food on the table and to protect and educate their families.
Unfortunatelly the greedy corporations eliminated their jobs and gave it to the 3rd world so they can make a big profit not realizing this is a short term gain. Who are they going to sell it"UNEMPLOYED AMERICAN"?
Also the people that are reaping benifits such as China will one day send US a great package in the form of nuclear arsenal.
Your Mr. Bush should have consentrated in getting his own house in order such as health care, unemployment,restricting gun sales,discrimination agains blacks etc, etc.

It is a shame that an honest average person can not become a president as he will be the only one that can feel what the average american person goes thru
Finally, I like to see mr. Bushes daughters go to Iraq to fight his war or fot that matter any other politicians son or daughter.

Pete,a proud Canadian who loves the average
American people and I wish you all the best in the world

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike, Brooklyn, New Yorks — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:32:24 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Charlie Heyssel — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:36:28 GMT

Russia needs to just sit down and shut up...its not the USSR anymore Putin...the rest of the world dosent care whether u want Kosovo independent or not...its time to coexist people...if russia uses military force...im down for signing up kickin those ruskies outta there

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Andrew, — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:37:36 GMT

I am an American, I am proud of what our country once stood for. Unfortunately our coutry has shifted from our basic beliefs to one of corprate/political corruption. What happened to the country of the people for the people. I have to agree, if it is not asked for dont offer. To many times the bleeding heart liberal americans stick their nose where it does not belong. I have to admit when we as a country declared war on terrorism I was all for it, unfortunately now it seems just like another Viet Nam, and a mistake. If it is a war treat it like one,remember Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Now I am not suggesting nuclear but we need to deliver a percise and swift blow and end it. It is time for us to look out for #1 and take care of our own issues, they are much larger than we care to admit. For instance: Healthcare, starving children, Social Security, 9.3 trillion in debt just to name a few. How can we condem the way thing have been in other countries when our has become not much better. The only advantage that we have over most of the other countries is we have FREEDOM. But what is that in a country that is bankrupt??? Everyone that has blogged this has at least one good point, but it boils down to we have to take care of the issues here before we can help with issues in other places. And that help should only come when asked, not just given to make a political statement.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Veton, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:39:39 GMT

Russia, is like a barking dog. (likes to bark and in fact doesn't do anything). They are just using Serbia as they did in the past and in the end they said to them bye bye. Serbia hasn't learn their lesson that Russians are blood suckers. They are the ones who humiliated, tortured, killed the whole Eastern Europe for 50 years. If Russians, were good and trustworthy, Tito would have created the alliance or joined USSR, but he didn't because he knew who they were. Now in 21 century we have Serbian nationalist who wants to join Russia. Let them join. That's the place were they came from anyways.

This is the time for European Union to tell Russia, this is it. And they should invest more on their military and show Russia their muscles, if they ever want to become superpower and model for the rest of the world. You can't have strong diplomacy if you don't have enough might to support your diplomacy. This is the time for the European Union to grow up and become strong, independent and speak in one voice. First make sure countries like Cypres, Slovakia and Romania do not ruin EU unity. Two of them know very well the consequences of USSR era, but it seems they "forgot" times of having meat twice a month, having milk for your baby once a week....list can go on...this is the place what Serbs and some of EU countries are leaning towards.
I just wish them good luck and go for it.
Kosova, will be independent and will strive economically and will show to the world that we belong to Europe, not to east or as some of you here are suggesting middle-east.

Long lived Kosova!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Gaston, Indianapolis, IN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:40:55 GMT

After Kosovo is independent, Corsica, Wales, Scotland, Puerto Rico, Hawaii will also declare its independence.Lets see how the US, UK & France feel about the homegrown independence movements-

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Concerned Person with Muslim Expanism — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:41:10 GMT

Treaty of 1463 between the Ottoman Sultan and the Christians of Bosnia
The Ahdnama is an agreement written by Sultan Muhammed al-Fatih (ra) who is famous for conquering Constantinople and fulfilling the prophecy of the Prophet Muhammed (saw) that Muslims would one day conquer the city.
Sultan Muhammed al-Fatih's great-great grandfather was Sultan Murad I (ra) who began the conquests to open up the Balkans to Islam. He is famous for defeating the Serbs at Kosovo field in 1389 and establishing the authority of Islam over Kosovo. Allah (swt) blessed Sultan Murad I with martydom (shahadah) in this battle.
Sultan Muhammed's father Murad II fought the second battle of Kosovo and began the conquests to open Bosnia to Islam. Following in the footsteps of his father and great-great grandfather, Sultan Muhammed completed their good work and opened up the entire region to Islam.
Islam, the final message for mankind established clear and detailed rules relating to the rights of Christians and Jews living under the Islamic State. The Ahdnama agreement is a clear and definitive historical record of the rights Islam gave to Christians living under its rule. The original Ahdnama agreement is still kept to this day in the Franciscan Monastery in the vicinity of Fojnica, Bosnia-Hercegovina.
Compare the just treatment the Islamic State gave to Christians in Bosnia in 1463 to 39 years later in Spain when the Christian inquisition gave the Muslims an ultimatum of convert or leave. In reality this became convert or die.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bobbie, Houston, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:51:02 GMT

The declaration of independence by Kosovo is a illegal act. What is troubling is the the US supported it, despite the fact that there is no UN resolition. Serbs have avery right to keep Kosovo as it is their historical teritory. I am a Bulgarian, but I fully support the Serbs and I wich that my govornment was not acting like the US' puppy. Noone has interest it this. WOuld United States hold the same possition if indians were to break-off and declare independence?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

D. Vukusich, Puerto Rico — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:51:05 GMT

Without a doubt, there are a lot of double standards being applied throughout the world and no one is totally right.
Certain historic changes over innumerable centuries can't be undone, like the Serbs driving out the Illyrians (ancient Albanians) after Rome's fall nor the Jews being forced into their Diasporas. Yet, partial reversals closer to modern times could, and have, been attempted, regardless of whose feelings would be hurt. Despite the Ottomans having forced many Serbs to leave Kosovo and cause eventual problems elsewhere in the Balkans including the initiation of WWI and then filling in the void with Albanians, a partial carving out now of northern Kosovo in favor of contiguous Serbia should have been done, just like the Kurds should have been given their own Kurdistan leaving newly established Muslim states after WWI satisfied with their own normal territories or even Istanbul returned to a contiguous Greece. (Part of my family underwent bad changes after WWI and WWII.) As to Russia, the conquest of various distinct ethnic areas by the Tsars is equally subject to some reversals. As to the American Southwest, to a large extent, Mexico inherited Spain's mantle over areas of AmerIndians who, to begin with, weren't feeling kinship with Mexico which soon became severe even with its own southern Indian populations, like the Maya and others whom they even sold into slavery in the Caribbean after some rebellions. The current inundation of the Southwest and elsewhere with non-documented people merits strong regulation, though not prohibition.
Nearly always though, politicians are short-sighted and screw up things when they don't truly understand history and simply try to placate supposed victims in the news. There are often other hidden victims not being treatedly justly. What's printed in the news isn't always right. Putin, though no saint, is right in saying what's good for the goose is good for the gander.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jetace, chicago illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:54:33 GMT

Didn't history taught us anything?
Go back to your 5th grade readings and see who was the population living in that region and then come and tell everybody the truth. Serbs should be happy to have found a land to settle their roots into. After milking it for centuries, using it and abusing it, it is time for them to say thank you. It is time for Serbia to wake up and shake the nationalistic dreams, because the land they so arrogantly claim to be theirs the albanians possesed it long before the concept of the serb nation even was percived as such. The only thing the albanians want is not for anybody to give. That is a rightfull status that defines a nation a country. Kosova has survived despite all this and will survive no matter what serbs and their pupetiers are palning to do. They are still here and will be here as long as there is a single breath in their beings.
To Milan the serb: You sir, are insulting other people and their inteligence by calling them ignorants. All I can say is : It takes one to know one. Wake up and see the world for what it is not for what you dream it to be.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sergey Neznanski, Brooklyn, NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:56:23 GMT

Get real! Kosova would declare independence anyway, even if nobody would recognize it. And without this recognition there would be more bloodshead. If we did not intervene, Palestine would seem like a very peaceful place compared to Kosovo. So we recognized Kosova independance in hope to prevent major war in the region. Of course there going to be hard feelings for centuries to come, but bad peace is better that good war.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

BEHO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:56:46 GMT

KOSOVO has never been SERBIA and will never be.The will of the people has spoken and they are independent
Anybody who knows some history of that region should celebrate this event with great benefit internationaly
Shame of serbian government for not been able to protect the US ambassy in Belgrade,but gess what we are strong and united the great nation under GOD.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Legakis, Brooklyn, NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:01:21 GMT

What people don't realize is that is was the Serbians who were ethnically cleansed by the Albanians. An example as quoted in the NY Times article 11/1/87, "Fadil Hoxha, once the leading politicians of ethnic Albanian orgin in Yugoslavia, joked at an official dinner in Prizren that Serbian women should be used to satisfy potential ethnic Albanian rapists". This came from a LEADING ethnic Albanian politicial, that represents his constituents!! This was the reality of the situation.

Over 150 churches and monasteries burned and desecrated, documented cases of nuns being raped... truly horrendous crimes being committed by the ethnic Albanian population against the Serbs. Milosevic came to Kosovo, as the Serbs were begging for help from Belgrade due to the crimes being committed against them. You see, Kosovo was autonomous at the time, so because the majority of people were Albanian, they controlled the majority of gov't posts... including police and judicial. Because of this the crimes committed against the Serbs got swept under the rug. About 100,000 Serbs fled Kosovo in a 12 year peoiod That's when Milosevic came to Kosovo and was scheduled to speak to a couple hundered Serbs about the conditions. 15,000 Kosovo Serbs showed up! The police started beating the Serbs trying to get into the meeting, to diperse the crowd. Milosevic came outside to see his countrymen getting beaten, ordered the police to stop, and famously said "No one is permitted to beat you".

It was then that Milosevic took away Kosovo's autonomy, and placed it under Belgrade's umbrella. This is when the KLA (Kosovo Liberation Army), with Germany, organized crime and US backing (Germany and organized crime initially), started their reign of terror. The KLA started killing civilians, gov't officials, police... anything to destabilize the region to paint a picture of catastrophe. They would kill their own ethnic Albanian population as well, for two reasons: 1) They would blame it on the Serbs, for their propaganda war. 2) Psychological terror on their own people to let them know the consequences to not doing exactly as they were told.

The KLA would order the gov't employees to go on strike, sabotage electrical power grids and other infrastructure, anything to make it seem that the Serbian government was responsible and make it seem that the Serbs were trying to create an unlivable atmosphere. It ws a big LIE! Propaganda to create the illusion.

So what does Milosevic do? He fires the workers and brings in people that will do the job the government is paying them to do. The KLA then says, "Look, he is firing all the workers, this is more racist discrimination against Albanians! We need the international community to stop this."

Finally, when NATO stepped in with US led bombing of Kosovo. As NATO was coming, and the Serbs did not want the ethnic Albanian population to be caught in the middle, because everyone would blame the Serbs... even if it was NATO bombing that killed them. The Serbs learned their lesson on this from the Serbo-Croation war previously,and were not going to make the same mistake again. So they brought humanitarian relief from all over Serbia (food, blanket, medical supplies) and told the ethnic Albanian population to go deeper into Serbia for protection. (The Serbs wanted to make a 40 kilometer perimeter around the battle zone) The KLA, through the Albanian clan leaders, told everyone to leave their homes and head to either the Macedonian and Albanian border. This was not a request, this was an order. By doing this, it would create the image of a mass catastrophe perpetrated by the Serbs. The Albanian population were NOT to go deeper into Serbia, as this would go counter to what the KLA was trying to accomplish. In order to make sure this was not going to happen, the KLA waited at the Serbian border, and killed any person, Albanian or not, who tried to do this. The KLA killed many people that day and blamed it on the Serbs, saying the Serbs were killing people trying to escape.

It was a masterful deception... brought about by US and German led NATO.

Just to give you an idea, the KLA was on the US State Department list of Terrorist Organization for a year. Then we labeled them "Freedom fighters". The head of the KLA is a guy named Thaci... who is now the Prime Minister of "independent" Kosovo.

All this against a people (Serbs) that have been with us through 2 World Wars, and defenders of Christianity since the ancient times. What you have left is an illegal, organized crime backed, Muslim country in the heart of Europe. It will be the drug capital of Europe and springboard for terrorist activities for years to come. God help us.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Neda Stevic — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:02:05 GMT

Kosovo is as important to Serbs as Jerusalem is to Jews. It has always been this way, and every Serbian house I've ever seen (more than most people since I am 100% Serbian) has Kosovo pictures all over the place. President Bush is an idiot, and he just wants to impose his will anywhere in the world where he has a chance. It's not as simple as just saying that the Serbs are in the minority there. That would simply be examining the situation superficially without looking at the root of this problem. Bottom line: If the U.S. is so benevolent and always trying to help anyone, then why aren't we making any changes in Darfur?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jeton Ademaj — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:02:40 GMT

first of all the actual birthplace of the Serbian Orthodox Autocephalacy is in Rascia, which once upon a time was in Kosova. However, Serbia's continual attempts to erase the much more ancient Albanian presence led them to shrink the administrative borders of Kosova, leaving Rascia in Serbia proper. so much for their "birthplace".

next of all, they are 8-9th century arrivals to the a region already occupied by Albanians. the term "Albanian" comes directly from the central Illyrian coastal tribe called the "Albanoi", who dominated Illyrian sea trading and gave the term "Albanian" currency. We Albanians actually call ourselves "Shiptar" and Albania "Shiperia" (with variant spelling) and it means "sons of the eagle" and "land of the eagle", repsectively.

lastly, Serbia made one genocidal attempt at so-called "ethnic cleansing" too many, and Serbia's chauvinist gamble in the whole region blew up in ther face. it's amazing how Serbian nationalism unleashed so much horro and victimization on Serbia's neighbors and it's own citizens, yet so many blame everybody BUT Serbia!

we get Central Casting's Muppet Show of America-hating American socialists, doing their best to advocate for the latest post-socialist montrosity from this or that autocrat. it's fascinating what kind of production value supporters of Slobodan Milosevic, Saddam Hussein, Castro and Putin can achieve when the likes of Ramsey Clark and his virulently anti-American "INternational Action Center" decide to pay their Kinko's bills for them...

Sometimes you judge people by their enemies as well as their friends. Kosova and Albania are easily the most pro-US, pro-Europe environments on Earth, whereas Kosova's enemies are Serbia, Russia and China...obvious champions of human freedom, all.

Kosova's obviously doing something right!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

qendresa Ottawa Ontario — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:10:14 GMT

Serbia has caused wars with Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo. The crimes they commited in Kosovo, and Bosnia are the worst in Europe since Hitlers time. Now these same people cry foul when the very people they commited genocide against dont want to live with them. Give me a break. Even Montenegro separated from them last year, and they share the same language and religion with the Serbs. The reason Kosova got its independence and kosovars will never agree to live under Serbian rule again is a direct result of the unimaginable crimes they commited against us. Serbian's have a naci mentality. The war in Kosovo had nothing to do with religion. It had to do with the fact that the serbs had a dream of a Greater Serbia and if you were not serbian then you simply did not deserve to exist. A month ago 47% of the serbians voted for the radical candidate who was an associate of Millosheviq, remember him? The serbians need to wake up, stop playing the vitctim and blame everybody for things which they are responsible for and apologize to the rest of the world for the fact that in the 20th centry in the middle of Europe they have commited crimes against humanity, have sent the region back decades economically, and every 3 years the world has to interevene yet again because they started another war and committed genocide again!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vincent, Cleveland Ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:11:38 GMT

To John from Seattle. If you think that the Russians have a chance against the US in any war not involving total destruction(Nuclear)than you should pack your bags and move to St. Petersburg, and I dont mean Florida. We could fight wars on 3 fronts and still win. Learn about the USA's military might before you speak moron.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Iricka Ivic, Edinburgh ,UK — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:17:51 GMT

Thank you Milo (California) for comment. I am a Serb from Bosnia, i have been forsed to leave my birth town of which was 85% distroed in 1995 including my home,by muslim forses;me and my family seek refuge in Serbia where we lived for 4 years. than we lost home again due to bommbing of Serbia by NATO. i live in the UK now, every time I have to put Bosnian as nationality i feal embaresed i am Serb who on wierd way has to say is Muslim becouse that is wath Bosnian is!I cant wait to get British pasport I will rather be British than bosnian. I was afrid to say am Serb although i was proud of it in times of comunism. I am embarest to say i am a Serb with Bosnian pasport only one I can have in last 18 years and now, now I am heartbroken to say I am a Serb without Kosovo. It hurts more than when i lost my first friend, my first home, freedom , my identity becouse i belived that one day people of the world will finaly see what is hapening on Balkan they will see the real side and ideas of Muslims, but now my last hope is lost. No one care it is all about money , it is all about America, they do not have a tradition, history 1000 years old they simple cant understand what is all about. freedom is what serbs wont, on their own land for their own people and enyone who want to live with them. Albanians imigrated to Kosovo becouse they have been ofered jobs and education there and they lived understurbed for many years with more rights than some other ethnic minoritis (like Roms), schools on albanian language were provided for their children, but it was not enough for them they had to take it all. They had to take our heart out of every and each of us. I just wonder what is going to be next?! where else they can hit, and how many 11.09. have to happen for people (not politics they do not care) to see who are the Muslims and what they wont! I see still some of you out there think we (Serbs) are the bad ones. this is my short family history: My grand-grand father is burnt alive with 4 of its children by muslims,one jumpt out the window, my grandfather when he grow up he was in german jeal, secund world war. after he gaind the freedom he marry the woman who lost his first husband and one child during the same war ,with germans, but they were kiled by muslims.For four years my farther and his 5 children were forst out of their home which is burnt afterwards, and than 4 years after bombed by NATO he still lives in poverty and his only worry is one for safety of his children. my father give me a blessing when i decided to marry a protestant and to my sister to marry a catolic surely different religions are not problem for him, but he is afraid of one. he thouth me to be afraid too, and i had the chance to see why.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Charles Dayton Ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:18:43 GMT

I believe the U.S should back off this one. We have too many other problems at hand to get into a military conflict with the Russians. In the mean time the "real world giant" the Chinese. Are sitting back waiting for the U.S to get involved. If the U.S wants to continue to be the country it has been since ww2 they need to regain finacial strength, and get this serious "debt monkey" off our backs. The U.S could very easily fall into economic ruin like the Russians did if we are not careful.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Steve O Litchfield Ct — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:22:15 GMT

After reading the comments prior to mine I see one constant, everyone has an opinion but no solution. The people of Kosovo were killed and not one in Russia helped stop the killing. NATO had to resort to bombing to stop the Serbian aggression. Russia has helped stop the US deaths in other parts of the world with intel and other help. It is not there fault, it is the arrogance of the Serb polititians not being able to end the past and look for a new future. We here in the US have the same problem with lifetime polititians who refuse to do their jobs by fighting with each other. We still have huge national and personal debt, sky rocketing medical problems and as seen in Louisiana we are a country one disaster away from total chaos.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Vincent, Ohio — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:26:00 GMT

Hey Dan from Portland, Mister I traveled everywhere and have time to write a desertation on Amercian values. You big Sally, wake up and smell reality. Yes, people die in war and battle. Innocent people that did not deserve to die. We dont intentionally set out to do this, but it happens. Why dont you ask the enemy about how carefull they choose their targets. 9/11, road side bombings and suicide attacks. Acts of cowards, like you Dan. Just another coward in this country who has so many freedoms to write the rubbish that you just composed. You are a complete and utter coward, a piece of garbage who again should move to another country if the freedom's here are so burdening to you. Please, dont stay, we are rotten, not a true American like you. You fargon idiot. Check your skirt at the door Sally. Why dont you talk about the way whenever th US has to fight a battle its on CNN. We are more carful not to kill innocent than anyone. I have friends who are Muslims and they say this" WHen Muslims go into battle, they fight to win. Not to win popularity. Men, women and children die." See that's why they call if war moron. So keep your cowardly comments to yourself, and go back into your Green Peace World, mister I traveled to everywhere. Next time you travel, just stay there and dont return!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Paul Dever — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:34:09 GMT

What a bunch of fools. Its all politics. Neither side can stand in the light of day for its cold blooded willingess to advance its own self interest. Russia and America are, and always will be, mortal antagonists. Neither time or misplaced affection wil change that. Putin rattles his sabers and Mr Bush rattles his...and frankly whether the Serbs or the Kosevars like it or not there is not much they can do about it. It is, after all, a question of haves and have nots! The haves have it and sword of Damocles hangs over all our heads.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Lili — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:39:06 GMT

This is to all the americans that wrote in the forum(from a fellow american): Just read the sad nationalistic comments of the serbians that wrote in the forum. Now go back in time to about 10-15 years ago when they just stood and watched as their government headed by the war criminal Milosevich committed the horrendous ethnic-cleansing attrocities. Kosovo was not an exeption. And remember people: the Kosovars (the majority)are not slavic. Just get a good history book about the Balkans and find out why this Democracy was not only neccessary but even past overdue.
As far as Russia is concerned, what do you expect Putin to do? Of course is going to comment to contend the serbs a little bit until they forget about this. Why do you think they (by they I mean US & the important EU countries) weren't ready to accept Kosovo's independence when we bombed Belgrade? This is all orchestrated and carefully planned, don't digest the media's intelligent observations and opinions without having a good knowledge of some historical facts. And please, do not compare Texas/US with Kosovo/serbia: totally different situations and the "analogy" just isn't valid.
I actually didn't expect this from Bush, but hey, this time he did help bring FREEDOM and DEMOCRACY to a repressed population(by serbs).
In conclusion, I am not very fond of people that burn my flag.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim Mc Carthy Summerville SC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:44:31 GMT

One more thing ...We must learn from history...."go back to the last war the US won ( WWII) and use the same " rules of engagement " we used then .............If we did that we will win every engagement we have to fight in ....but it is not politically correct so our marines and army are dieing because of this .....THINK ABOUT IT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Carlos R Canas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:45:59 GMT

Will the US now recognize an independent Puerto Rico??

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

rianne — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:52:46 GMT

Come up with a new line people, stop blaming U.S.A for everything. Seriously. Figures..

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jack, Los Angeles — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:52:53 GMT

Yugoslavia has been split apart into several countries and the US has stood by them all. Why should we abandon the last country to declare its independence? Kosovo is between Serbia and Albania,this is nothing more than a land grab by Serbs who want nothing more than to continue the ethnic cleansing of a people they despise. The BS about this being the heart and soul of their country is just political cover to continue with a murderous policy against its own people. Maybe the world should start an ethnic cleansing in Serbia? Its OK for them to be the killers, but how would they like it if it was them who were being hunted and killed in mass graves. Turn the other cheek and see how it feels Serbs! Free and independent Kosovo is good for the world.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Carol Huffman New Bern, NC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:54:06 GMT

Most of the ethnic Albanians came to Kosovo under the
rule of Tito who wanted to help poor Albanians. Their
tendency for very large numbers of children keep them
poor and also contributed to their population outnumbering the native Serbs. America beware! This
is happening in the United States. The KLA which
we supported is a "mafia" type organization which
embranced terrorism against the Serbs which caused
the "brutal" effort of Serbs to gain control of this
terrorist organization which included Bin Ladin.
This group is still in control of Kosovo. The economy
of Kosovo is in shambles in spite of its rich natural
resources. Since 1999, the ethnic Albanians have
purged the country of its non-etnic Albanian population. Not just Serbs, but Gypsies, Muslims,
and other ethnic groups

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Toni, Tirana, Albania — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:58:44 GMT

100+ yrs of mass murder/rape/ethnic/ cleansing/torture/theft/etc committed by Serbia onto Albanians is finally over with creation & recognition of independent & sovereign, Republic of Kosova.

Thanks to all who sacrificed for free Kosova. Thanks USA. Thanks main Europe for finally fixing an old mistake, that of giving Kosova to Serbia many decades ago & for again following USA over important issues. Thanks to other countries that have and/or will recognize Kosova shortly.

Serbia should: 1.Stop the terror & and join the civilized world.2.Promptly, recognize Republic of Kosova, apologize, pay war damages & leftover debt 3.Begin EU integration and stop holding back the whole Balkan region.

Russia should stop bluffing with empty threats because they would not go into war for Serbs. Globalism is far more important to us all then some idiots who continue to believe their own pathetic lies and continue to lie to the whole world that Kosovo is Serbian. It never was and will never be and yeah, that why it is independent now.

Congratulations, God Bless Kosova, its people and its allies.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

alan, Laguna Beach, Ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:59:18 GMT

Just what we need. Another Serbian inspired war on the continent of Europe fueled by ancient historical animosities. How nice.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Alex, New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:02:15 GMT

It's so stupid, I even don't know where to start.
Probably with a little history lesson.
In 1950th people albanian people from independent country Albania flew from poverty to better lived Yugoslavia. They assimlited in Kosovo, which by that time was mostly populated by serbian people. During 30 years period, till middle of 1980th albanian population rapidly grew to became majority in Kosovo and pushing out serbs out of Kosovo at that times it was realy no-military use.
Then in 1990 Yugoslavia broke apart. There was realy bitter war. I dont wanna discuss who was right and who was wrong. Nobody is right, thats for sure. All sides did a lot of unhuman mistakes.
Now, Imagine situation when about 600 thousand people from any country, Albania, India, China, well you name it, move to say state of Utah (I think population over there now is about 400 thousand people) or basicly any small state of USA. And in 10 years they demand independance. Life will become very interesting.
I understand when USA protected albanians in Kosovo in 1999 from Miloshevich's military forces. But now Serbia have demokratic peacefull goverment and I believe kosovars have no reasons to demand independence based only on a short piece of history.
I am very sorry that USA goverment recognized Kosovo now. Huge mistake which will be heart throught all life and maybe our kids life.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ted - Sacramento, CALIFORNIA-USA!!! — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:02:47 GMT

Man oh man! This is crazy. I too believe that Russia is a bully but no more than the US. When your as big and powerful as we both are, its hard not to be. I think we should stay out of the business of getting involved when we shouldnt be. We need to bring our troops home soon (not all NOW) but soon. We are stretched to thin and its showing here at home. If we had our troops back, we wouldnt have hundereds of thousands of single parents barely surviving and having to rent apartments. If there other halves came home and worked, it would help our economy in the fact that they would be able to work and afford to buy homes that are sitting on the market for going on 2 years now. They would be spending money and our economy would be booming again. Believe that Russia is controlling what is reported and that we are not getting the whole truth. Also believe that this problem with the muslims trying to take over serbia just because they have more people there can eventually bleed into other countries in the area(like Germany, France, Britian etc). But should the US get involved..NO. I love my country and am proud to be AMERICAN, but think that we need to focus on home and not trying to fix other nations when ours is hurting so badly. PS-Russia isn't that bad, they are very much like us. I would be pissed too if they tried to put missiles in Mexico. GOD BLESS US ALL! We are all brothers and sisters.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Marina, Chicago, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:07:08 GMT

HELLOOOOOO PEOPLE!!!!!!!
Let's sum things up:

The US is the bully here.

The U.S. has interset in Kosovo for it's own selfish purposes. They what to set up a navl base there so they can keep an eye on the Russians....among other things.

The Serbs are always portrade as the "Bad Guys" which is a bunch of bologny. They are only trying to keep what they fought so hard to get.

Why don't the AMerican's concentrate on their failing economic situation? The housing market crash? The health care issues? The disappearance of the middle class? Welfare?

LEAVE THE SERBS ALONE. The U.S. does not know what they are getting themselves into. How many more U.S. boys need to die before the U.S. realize they have made yet ANOTHER MISTAKE!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

JE , Los Angeles — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:07:29 GMT

Booba Kastorsky, As an American I support your right to free speech. But you need to get an education,a GED is equal to a high school diploma. Then after you can read and spell correctly, you might want to take some classes on American history and try to pass a citizenship test and become a true American not just some freeloader who abandoned his country out of fear of repression. You clearly show bias toward Russia, maybe you would like to live under the new Stalin, his name is Putin.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Lili L, Palm Beach, Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:09:57 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dan Bowen, Phoenix AZ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:10:56 GMT

Booba, with all due respect, I was in the Air Force working the air campaign over Kosovo watching the Serbians murder people by the thousands and doing everything in my power to stop them. Are these the same Serbians that love Kosovo as they suggest? Where was Russia then? Just go online and watch the countless videos of the burning villages, read how the Serbs killed the people then burned the villages in an effort to erase any documentation of their existence. It is NATO that has kept the Serbs and the people of Kosovo from fighting since the end of the conflict but it is the people of Kosovo that have 200,000 less friends and family due to the ethnic cleansing by the Serbians. Where was Russia during this Hitler like time? Russia is out of line and Serbia should be ashamed of their deplorable behavior.
Where are the Russians? They’re in Iran selling nuclear technology and every weapon system in their inventory. They’re in North Korea doing the same. And now they’re back to flying provocative nuclear strike profiles with long-range bombers against US territories and most recently, our aircraft carriers in the Pacific.
As for the US parking missiles on Russia’s doorstep, try not to forget that we offered to work with the Russians on a joint defensive project to protect the world from rogue nations with terrorist ties. What is Russia’s position? Well they simply suggest that the US is acting like they did back in the 60’s 90 miles south of Miami. The problem with that argument is that the missile shield is just that, defensive, not offensive and the reason Russia is against it is because it would negate the very weapons the Russians continue to produce and sell to places like Iran and North Korea.
But if you want to step back on your soapbox and continue to believe that the US is the great Satan, then MOVE out of Boston and out from the protection and freedom this country offers.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Besim Shabani, Gjilan,Kosova — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:11:17 GMT

if you are a christian ..answer this question! could you replace him on the Calvary?....if you are a

muslim,answer this question! are you feelin proud?...its very confused situation in the world

today.every one of you are victim of misinformation becouse you watchin news on tv

screens,sittin in the couch and eatin penuts with fingers, thinkin that you knowin the best but

some of you guys are forgettin the 100 holocausts,500 srebrenicas,and a little Reqak in a small

country Kosova but noone can't see the true or you just don't want to see the trueth . I don't

know bout you guys but me and my family are knowin the true of how to be proud to have

friend like US..ask my lil sister how is like being raped by someone that you thinkin he's unguilty?

you got a lot of true stories written as the tattoo in different graves all over my gheto Kosova...try

to figure out how could you feel if the best someone of your life was on the planes that been

crashed on the world trade center ..5 minutes ago that person that you love the most is sayin to

you the last words....I LOVE YOU AND I"M proud to be american...
I'm askin you to figure it out ..don't worry bout me ...I already live that,,,my people knows how

is to be born again...we saw death..we saw our graves waitin for our dead bodies in it...it was up

to US that I'm still breathin and I proudly say this: Thank you US.. every albanian all over the

world, I'm truely believe, are thankin you more than some of your sons that you protectin and

tellin them the true values of the freedom. becouse they don't apreciate the security and the

freedom that you offerin to them...US is fightin for the freedom...its up to the strongest the

security of lil countries like REPUBLIC OF KOSOVA....I'm proud to be KOSOVAR

ALBANIAN

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Harry, Tucson, Ariz. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:12:03 GMT

I agree with those who say the US and EU have ignored Balkan history. It seems most US and West European leaders and populations want to ignore even their own history. Why should Kosovo be independent? Why doesn't Albania just annex Kosovo and be done with it?
Denying Serbia some role in Kosovo is like denying Israel a role in Jerusalem. Perhaps a formula where Serbia and Albania share sovereignty under UN administration would be the most sensible compromise to end this crisis.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Howard Martin, Providence Forge, Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:12:20 GMT

Everyone on this board should read George Washington's Farewell speech. In it he predicts what is happening to us now in 2008. Wake up America and you will see our founders were far more intelligent than anyone in politics today. Our forefathers time was the forming of our nation and we have we have strayed far from what their vision. We have one of the most corrupt governments in the world today and they are leading us around like sheep, taking from us what they choose and giving us the illusion of freedom and democracy. It is time we as Patriots take back our country and replace our Government with the one we were founded on. This can be accomplished by voting the career politicians out of office and instituting a congress that is truly " Of the people, By the people and For the people." Election time is coming so don't be fooled by all the promises. Know the people you are electing and choose wisely. Our future depends on it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Josh Rubenstein — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:12:33 GMT

The Serbs fought on the side of the U.S. in two world wars, losing 1/4 of their male population in each war, with hundreds of thousands the victims of genocide during WWII. The Serbs have sacrificed for the over and over again for Western interests and ideals. What have the Albanians done for the West? Besides serving as a narco-terrorist stopping point for Afgan heroin on its way to American streets? The Albanians have driven the Serbs from their Kosovo homes which are now occupied by Albanians, the Albanians have destroyed scores of Serbian churches in their ethnic cleansing of Kosovo. Serbs constitute the largest refugee population in Europe, thanks in great part to Kosovar Albanian terror. The U.S. is stupid to recognize Kosovo independence, at all, but especially without Kosovo first meeting minimal human rights standards, including returning Serbs to their homes and providing guarantees of safety. I wouldn't blame Russia for rolling in the tanks to stop this travesty.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Kosta, Chicago — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:12:41 GMT

Great job Paul, Booba, Efrim, Milan, Dan, etc.

Valon. Your Albanians in New Jersey tried to attack the US base there. I think your loyalty is questionable.

Eriola, you sound like a politician since none of what you say is true. 4000 bodies were found(Serbian and Albanian) in Kosovo by a European led body. The monastaries that are hundreds to 1000 years old I guess were also just "fabricated" in 1912 and 1985. A score or more have been destroyed by the Albanians.Do you comprehend what that means and that it can't be duplicated. Wow! Where were you educated?

The US has continually let the Serbian people down.

After WWII they backed the communist Tito and turned their back on General Mihailovich, the savior of hundreds of downed US pilots, allowing him to be murdered by the communists.

The destructive fall of Yugoslavia could have been minimized if the US and European Community were decisive on supporting the unity or break up the country. Germany again was the leading force in a war in the Balkans by going against every other nation's wishes by recognizing independent Croatia and Slovenia. It was their first act as a united nation after the fall of "the wall" and were told not to do so until all avenues were evaluated.

The US lead economic sanctions to put against Serbia and Montenegro but no other break away republics that lead to extreme hardships to the people and hyper inflation. This most likely caused the crumbling values that allowed the mobsters to take power and caused a "brain drain" from the country as the intellectuals fled foreseeing the disaster coming.

The US supplied weapons and training to the Croatians during the breakup.

The US allowed Islamic extremists to enter Bosnia to fight for the Muslim Bosnians(which most were Bosnian Orthodox Serbs but changed for polical reasons or just plain lack of loyalty during Ottoman occupation) and supplied them with weapons and training.

During the civil unrest in Kosovo lead by the KLA(listed as a terrorist organization) and Mujahideen the US led forces bombed Serbia and Belgrade for the second time in history, now equal with the Nazis. The US used depleted Uranium weapons which caused many of the Italian troops that dealt with the arms to develop cancer and die. (Look it up!)What of the people on they were used on? What of the land its spent rounds lay in?

Now the US illegally recognizes the terrorist organization led KLA break away of Kosovo.

Wow! With friend like this you don't need enemies.
No matter for they will always persevere.

The Serbs always stood guard at the "Gateway." They died but never gave up their faith, culture or their belief in right will win out in the end.

They have always trained their military to protect, not invade.

The Serbs are not invaders. They have historically been protectors and will always be.

In WWI every second man died. They inflicted tremendous loses to the Austrian and German forces that invaded. The French lost more people but percentage wise the Serbs lost the most.

In WWII the Yugoslav government that signed a pact with the Axis was quickly over thrown and the Axis denounced. This was done knowing that Yugoslavia could not stand against the fully prepared German army. They choose freedom and death over being enslaved.

Their Croatian brothers quickly stabbed them in the back and welcomed the Germans as the marched in with flags and flowers. They stabbed their countrymen in the back, very honorable. Look it up. It is fact. It is written about with honor by the Croat historians.

The recent Holocaust Memorial opening invited Croat and Bosnian Muslim leaders to the horror of the Simon Rosenthal Institute and did not invite any Serbian leaders of State. The Croats and Muslims were known participants in the Holocaust, as were the Albanian SS. Look it up.

This once great country is only a few hundred years old. The Serbs have endured more than five hundred years of hardship under the Ottoman Turks so they will be around long after this once wonderful country of ours is another blip in history.

The great founders of this country are long and the newest carriers of the torch are floundering.

I hope Russia's resurgence will give this country a slap in the face so it realizes what is important.

The family values have degraded tremendously and it looks to be continuing on this trend.

The Serbs have not lost this through the centuries of prosperity and great suffering. That is what has kept them strong and together while the other civilizations have melted away. Poor Italy is a good example.

I apologize for the wordiness but this is quick history lesson for those that know nothing more than the word.

Yes, I am Serbian and am here because my grandfather spent 4 years of his life in a prisoner of war camp in Germany, fighting for the King.

He came to a great country. How disappointed he would be today.

Serbia will always naively think of America as a friend. The recent incident at the embassy was anomaly. It didn't happen during the 90 days of bombing in 1999, when it should have.

I hope we can turn this big red, white, and blue ship to its proper course. It seems to have lost its way.

Choose right. Honor. Pride. Respect. Death comes to us all. But these will help you when the darkness is near.

Long Live Serbia!
God Bless America! Help her find her way.

Kosta

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

en Hill, Seattle, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:19:48 GMT

After studying what possible facts that can be gleaned from all the passionate hot air and misinformation, it seems this is another straightforward case of ignoring what's going on on the ground amongst the people actually directly involved in the events of history. If a natiion abuses it's people (genocide times 1000 years), that nation is highly questionable in it's claims of sovereignty over a people who have suffered so much for so long. Look no further than the child rapist demanding custody of his (defenseless) victim.

I see very little international outrage about human rights abuses and independence from those abusers in areas that are not proven to have profit potential.
If Rwanda or Darfur were rich in exploitable resources, the corporate patriots who control the easily influenced, unstudied masses of this country would be a lot more outraged, wouldn't they?

If we as a people want to accept responsibility to uphold the cause of liberty for the world, we must protect ALL who need it, not just the ones that look like they'll have profit potential. To whom much is given, of them much shall be required. If we as a nation don't wish to pay the whole price as the world's policeman and protect everyone who needs it, we need to shut up about our selective moral outrage that only applies to issues that have potential economic benefit to us.

Go back to what is going on amongst the ordinary people in the areas in question. Has anyone in the halls of international power EVER done this? The best definition I've ever heard of war is when old men argue, young men (women and children) die. How many corpses will you requre to uphold your national honor?

What is really going on in the minds of the ordinary citizens of each country? The people who will have to do the bleeding if stupid, reactionary old men can't figure out another way to prop up their own and their nation's underacheiving national self-image? What do the ones most affected by these policies want?

Do you really think that the ordinary citizens of a nation that lost 50,000,000 people the last time they went to war is as excited to launch aggressive measures as you sunshine patriots who have never seen combat?

When will you realize that war does not create nearly the economoi benefit since it kills paying customers and destroys economies that would be happy to buy your stuff if they weren't busy getting killed. Refugees have less buying power in the world economy than citizens in a peacetime economy. Does that make any sense?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Max Brooklyn New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:26:00 GMT

You know if Russia such a bully, than how come it's only the American flag that is the most burned flag all over the world. We sometimes just butt in, to places we do not belong in. Anywhere you go people hate Americans. Even if Russia does not have freedom of press in their country one thing they don't do is make decisions for another country. I am proud to be an American but the way our leaders make decisions, it will just be the cause of WWIII.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

oea Tampa FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:26:04 GMT

American ignorance, again trying to fix the world, don't we learn from Iraq, as in Iraq we are learning about, Serbs, Albanian and Kosovars, from the press, instead of History books.
We just have created another conflict, and just as we did with Israel, this one will take many lives; but just remember, we are supporting Muslims this time, and we all know what to expect from them: SUICIDE BOMBERS AND RADICAL ISLAM, this time in the heart of Europe.
Good luck ignorants.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Erik granados, centreville VA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:26:22 GMT

As always, American amnesia, cynicism and/or ignorance
are evident when it comes to name calling or pointing fingers to others. True, Rusia is a bully but not any more or less dangerous than the U.S. multiple bloody interventions around the world particularly Latin America. Open and/or cover interventions, CIA torture jails along with the support to murderous regimes and secret services etc. etc. Economical or violance (terrorism) as applied by Americans and Rusians to its neighbors does not differ much when you are at the end receiving. Careful throwing a rock when you live in a glass house

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim, California — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:28:45 GMT

I grew up with Serbs, Croats, Russians, Albanians, and Greeks in Chicago. We all lived there as Americans together just fine, thank you. NATO has no business making changes to the existing borders, playing cop for the region, or worst of all, taking sides. When will the world learn to stop interfering in family quarrels? I'd never stand between relatives fighting. Let the Serbs and Albanians either work it out peacefully, or violently, but let them work it out without outside interference. Most intelligent Americans will say had the French or British sided with the South during the US Civil War, a hatred against them would likely contine to today. NATO,OUT!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sarcastic Joe-Shmo, Jacksonville,NC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:32:01 GMT

Im tired of all this crap. Lets all go back to isolationism. Quick, everyone go back to your native countries, no more living in America. Russia, Serbia, Germany, Iraq, Vietnam, NKorea, go ahead with your mass murder, ethnic cleansing, whatever. At least I can walk out my front door without fearing for my life because of race, politics, religion or gender. Good luck to the rest of you.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

James Simokovich Memphis ,Michigan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:33:47 GMT

I am a serbian american,and cant' undrestand why we have to be involved in everybody elses business, We have enough problems right here in this country. I support the serbs stand on Kosovo, how can you take someone else's land and say its yours? This is the birth place of the serbian orthodox religion.This would be like taken the vatican from the cathlics,Do you honestly believe they wouldn't fight for it .I hope this does not start a major war,but were heading in that direction. Go serbs, kick those basturds out of our country. Thanks for the help Russia.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

A Concerned Anerican Who once saw greatness in this nation.bbmd-bds — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:33:50 GMT

Having been an American F4 pilot in the Vietnam Theatre
and seeing the great Bear of the North extend its claws into the American Economy by supplying aid to the NVA along with the Lead and Anti Freeze that poisons our children our great competetitor China that we built through a false friendship thus allowing our economy to be raped by Bill Clinton and depleting all of the American manufacturing resources by sending our technology to China. Smile
all of you who supported this political Clinton fiasco. Just look at our economy and un employment now! We Have lost the material resources to lodge a defense of this nation. Thanks to the greed of the elected officials in Washington.Then and now.

The next time a Russian Bear Bomber floes 700 feet above the deck of a US Ship expressly a US Naval Carrier we should declaw it ,Its propellers and wings.

America are we total fools to let this BS continue.

Its time to change Putin to Putting in the sand.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Albanian Girl, Palm Harbor, FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:34:07 GMT

I am a very proud Albanian living in Palm Harbor, FL. I am so happy that Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. I read some of the postings and I couldn't help but laugh at some of the comparisons. Kososvo is not to Serbia as Texas is to United States, and Kosovars should not be compared to illegal Mexican immigrants. Those of you who made those comments should read up on your history. Kosovo was ALbanian territory and was given to the Serbs in 1912. Therefore, Kosovars are natives and not immigrants. Moreover, you have no idea what has happened to Albanians of Kosovo since 1912. Ethnic cleansing to say the least.Maybe you should do some research since it would take me hours to list everything that has happened in the last 90 years. Of course Serbians are upset....but who cares !!!!! Kosovo deserves to have freedom and be its own country. God bless U.S.A. and other western countries for the support! Those of you who say that U.S.A. is a bully have no idea what it is like to see your family members shot and your house burned in front of you just because you are of a different ethnicity and religion. Kosovo has had enough and it is time for FREEDOM!!!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ivan Flor, Dallas, Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:39:40 GMT

It's is time for US to mind its own business and stop being the cause of wars and hatred around the world. Kosovo is one, Iraq another, Palestine another and the list goes on and on. COWBOY diplomacy DOES NOT work....

We cannot being the cause of dividing countries, cultures and races to conquer. We need to start learing to win hearts and souls to achieve that objective.

One more misscalculation of Bush and its short sighted Republicans....

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Patrick from Arington, Virginia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:40:04 GMT

The United States is trapped in a precarious position. We have two incompatible standards at play which are coming into conflict. The first is that we have supported various independence movements throughout Eastern Europe, thus is makes sense to support Independence for Kosovo. At the same time however, our country has a foundation not in any one particular ethnic identity, but in a national/political identity. In effect, we have denied the later standard and upheld the former at the cost of setting a particularly dangerous precedent where various other small ethnic minorities from various parts of the world will appeal to in order to justify there own movements for independence (Basques in Spain, Kurds in Turkey and many more). It is ironic that as Americans we have trouble understanding why people place an ethnic identity above a national one, and yet we are blatantly encouraging it with recognizing Kosovo's independence. Russia's bullying does not make the situation any better, nor the nonsense that somehow the U.S. is responsible for the violent actions of the rioters. Loud rhetoric, but not necessarily empty rhetoric. The politics being practiced are hardly just or prudent on either side, and alternatives need to be sought. Perhaps instead of independence, a Federal system in Serbia, with Kosovo?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

ron wentz — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:40:49 GMT

My parents think its crazy when i tell them some countrys dont want to be like us and shouldnt be like us... Iraq will never be like us.. it took a krazy no good nut like sadam to keep those barbarians in check.. some people dont under stand that like the romans we americans are at the top not just money but as far as everything.. all others are barbaric and animals...you cant give your dog a check book and tell him he is rich.. he will just chit on it or eat it... same thing with subhumans.. they cant be like us......

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

RB — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:42:18 GMT

Yeah! You can thank the Bush Adminastration for another blunder.This Government of ours is always sticking there nose were it does'nt belong.
This is why we need a third party to run for office because the Democrats and Republicans are just messing things up.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

angelo — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:43:35 GMT

your hypocricy will bury you ....america

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

RB,St Clair Shores Mi — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:43:42 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

D Nofziger, Milford, IN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:44:55 GMT

It is hard to know truth from fiction in the US. Our media and Bush's government usually do not give us the whole story or the truth. Recent history proves that. I am reminded of Mark Twain, "It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so."

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

R.P dunedin, Fla — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:45:12 GMT

I understand that world is bitter with each others .I offer Russia and USA or others let them independence and let them ambitous business their home country and we should have keep to eye all world prevent make bombs ! keep all world peace. I love russia and Usa even Serbians and Korvos either please help other make improve enomcey keep up .

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jko, Houston, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:47:31 GMT

To the person who said the US placed missiles in the Czech Republic and Poland, the US didn't place missiles, but were asking the two countries to place a missile defense system. This got Russia angry so Putin decided that threatening the countries with nuclear weapons would make them change their course. Putin was angry because they didn't want the defense system Russia was asking to install. Why would Russia be angry at the installation of a MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM? Because it can shoot down the nukes Russia currently fields.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Muhamet, Mitrovica, Republic Of Kosova — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:54:08 GMT

Ethnic albanians in Kosova are decendants of Illyrians one of the oldest populations in the Europe, and we the Albanians and Kosovans are decendants of them, Serbs came here from Russia, that is one of the reason that Russia supports them they are both orthodox and they have similar language.
All what the Serbs have done in kosovo is violating, stealing from us and deporting, thats all what they did, but with the help of GOD, USA, AND EUROPE we got back that what was ours for centuries.

And we have shown to Americans and Europeans that we are thankfull to them for their help.

Every year we celebrate 4th of July, just as we were 53rd American State.
Now we have a traditional movie festival named 9/11 from 2002, and when Al-Qaeda or whoever atacked WTC Towers in that night the U.S Embassy here was all covered in flowers, candles and prayers to the families of the persons who lost their lives in that attack.

I just wanna say that noone would tolerate oppresion that we had from Serbs, during the war they killed kids, masacred old ppl and womans, how come we can go back with them, check the news what they are doing in Belgrade, protesting and looting, they burned the US Embasy that shows how civilized they are.
They killed my 5 five cousins and more then 20.000 Ethnic Kosovans. And they want us back, come on that dream is finished.

GOD BLESS AMERICA
GOD BLESS KOSOVA

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

nick michigan usa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:57:42 GMT

I can't believe this people that talk this way about kosovo when they don't any idea about the history of balkan. Did these people learn anything in school that kosovo and a lot more places that are out of albania since 1913 used to be albanian land. Anybody knows ILLYRIA nobody because you are dumb and talk bullshit about the fck serbs and russians mthfck because they are brothers it was serbs they came and invaded albanians lands many years ago. Where they came from guess from mother Russia.So people i sugest before talk shit open the books and find out the truth respect nick.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Charles Wright Charleston WV — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:58:04 GMT

Oh I was in Kosovo when Russia tried that BS at the airport and it was a tense stand off trust me on that until we flexed on them and they had to bend we had too much equpment on the ground to be messed with and on that same note my time spent in Kosovo Mr. Osoma showed up there to watch a soccer game if you don't believe me check out Sports Illastrated. We where ready and able to take him down with his body guards but they said it would've been too many causalties so I myself was mad as hell when they said he was the mastermind behind 911 so the government can tell America what they want them to know but a American soldier knows the truth that is why we are not allowed to speak to the media. And yea the Serbs and the Russians always had to be watched in Kosovo because they would always showed favoritism to the Serbs so I tmyself thought it was a waste a time to watch a member of Nato acted the way they did in Kosvo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Omar Smith, Emporia, VA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:01:26 GMT

remember the Civil War when our great nation was kept entact at all cost by our government. why not respect Serbia. every nation throughout the world has different cultures, customs, beliefs, so why cant we just respect them even if we dont agree with them. they say the South shall rise again....i guess now we just welcome that idea with open arms!!!!!!!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Michael Sutherland — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:01:45 GMT

The Shameless Anglos-Saxons, of the EU and US, are actively murdering palestinians everyday,by physically supplying Israel to the tune of Billions of dollars in Bombs and planes and supporting the stealing of lands and desdruction of agricultural land, olive trees etc. What Serbia did to Kosovo was a picnic im comparision.If They are so concerned about people's freedon and Notionhood why then they don't make Palestine an Independent Nation?Let me guess: They are the ones ethnically cleansing the poor palestian muslins.Simple; The Anglos-Saxons,yes, this is an Anglo Saxon-Plus 1) thing (brained by you know who,who never show their faces but make the plans) are there to take over the world. including the invasion of Iraq. It's always the Anglos and then they drag the weak states with them. Kosovo will be in the future one more rat tag "Nation" to vote in the "coalision of the willing" together with the "great nations' of Haiti and Benin. Take the end of the cold war-which never ended for the US. The Russians disbanded The Warsaw Pact, while the Americans Kept expanding, still are, NATO.The Europeans+ advocate and helped the separation of the USSR and Juguslavia, ironically they continue grabbing more contries to their "kingdom of EU" now dominated by The UK, France,and Germany and tacitally teh USA.What do the have in commun? 1- They Are Anglos. The Royals are all connected.The English Royals all come from the European Royal dinasties.Too much? Putt your brains to work.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dan, Dupo, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:08:41 GMT

Jay Berry, you are correct. The closest analogy that I can think of to the US would be if the Mexicans in Texas decided to declare that Texas would now be an independent country and the EU, Russia, China and all other countries except the US government recognized this new "illegal" nation. How would the US government vote on that one? Or is it that the rules that apply to you are not to be applied to me?

Our government should respect the sovereignty of every nation as we would have other nations do the same for our sovereignty.

If we recall, NATO in 1999 violated it's own charter when it attacked Yugoslavia. NATO charter says that an attack on any NATO country would be treated as an attack on all NATO countries. However, Yugoslavia never attacked a NATO country, but NATO was the first to conduct attacks on Yugoslavia. Here's another mess the US government has gotten us into. Other examples are Iraq where we supported Saddam against Iran initially, Afghanistan where we supported Bin Laden against the USSR initially, Iran where we supported the Shah. We tell Iran it is not to develop nuclear weapons, but it's okay for us to. There is a double standard being applied when people look at things impartially.

If we look at other nations of the world, most would say the US is being the bully by getting involved in others affairs. In my opinion, we are causing more problems than we solve.

Just remember that I love the USA, but not it's government! A solid majority of Americans feel we should leave Iraq, but our government doesn't leave. Why not? Our government officials are paid off by lobbyists representing companies and persons who make money from the status quo.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Stephen McArthur, Regina, Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:11:52 GMT

Curtis,please note that if there is another " cold war " , the current unconventional war with terrorists will continue. Do not delude yourself that the terrorist will take a vacation. Then the USA will have BOTH the cold war and the war on terror - not a pleasant scenario.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Florida — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:13:34 GMT

Isn't this just wonderful... Russia just seems to be hunting for a reason to take on the US. It's begining to look like they are finding the reason to strike and begin the war of the TITANS.
All we can and will do is stand tall and as always show what makes our nation roll. In GOD we Trust and if Ignorance will ignate a war that will affect the place we call home. Soon that same home we call EARTH will reclaim it's far too abused territories. Nevertheless to the end America will fight for what is right. Freedom.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mark Lagomarsino, Boise, ID — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:18:59 GMT

Just one more reason to bring the troops home. This is an important fight, but if the US is going to support revolutions, which I don't have a problem with, we better have our military ready for the fight. What a perfect scenerio for Russia to test our military when they are scattered all over the place. We are biting off more then we can chew, once again. Bush, stop stirring up the pot when we can't keep it from boiling over.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Gent, Toronto — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:21:26 GMT

Most of people here talk about US and Rusia. Kosovo and Serbia are european land, and above all this is an european problem. It would have been good if both Rusia and US minded their own business.

Don't forget that the proposal that Kosovo needs to be independent came from Maty Ahtisary, Finish President, after long negotiations between serbs and albanians.
We don't know more history and politics than this gentleman! He had all the evidence he wanted to reach his conclusions.
Now it is easy to get confused with arguments provided by one or the other side (pandora box, ect). The fact is that this neutral and very experienced politcan came to conclusion that independence is the solution. All nations backed hiw when he leaded the negotiations between serbs and albanians. When he declared his conclusions, Rusia and others didn't like and started to make arguments.
How about other European nations that recognized Kosovo, i.e. Italy, Germany, France, UK, ect. Are they stupid and want to set the entire world in fire by accepting the independence of Kosovo? No, they are not stupid! They think this is the right solution. When they say it they have taken in consideration the past (which is very complicated and they know the history better than anyone else), the present (the genocide of 1999) and the future (this is all european land and if countries are willing to cooperate they will be one community), like sates in US.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim Estes — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:24:28 GMT

This is so sad! The US has always wanted instability in that area, I still can't figure out why. But this is utter bull! If the people of New York City decided to claim independance, would the US allow that? Or if 5 million Mexicians claimed a part of Texas as their own, what then? You know what, bring out the military. People should do some research on Albanians through out that region. Do you remember what happened when Macedonia allowed the all those refugees in during the last Serb war? They began pillaging there villages. Like I said, its sad. Kosovo is and will always be Serbia. If you don't like it, go home!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

lena, Pristina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:24:31 GMT

For some of u that compare USA to Serbia and Kosovo to Texas i must say that is insanse, you have at least to know the history of Kosovo and Serbia and then comment, I guess u all forgot 1999 what Serbians did to Albanians in Kosovo, u forgot the war of Bosnia, Croatia ... with Serbia the histori always repeats i have to believe that there are some Serbians with common sence but the history says different they have been brainwashed by their leaders and forgot theat they came there and that Kosovo together is Albanians place and NEVER EVER was theirs you all can just google and read about the history look at the old maps u will all see that Kosovo toggether with Albania, Presheva, Bujanofci, Medvegja, Ulqini, Tivari, Cameria, Tetova ,Kumanova and many other places originate from Illyria that was one of the oldest nations in Europe and Serbians that are sllavs came very late in history....
I would say bravo to USA and all the other countries that recognized Kosovo's Independence because with this they are correcting all the wrongs that were done to Albanians through history. And to all of u my friends please never give an un informed oppinion in the end who is Russia to decide for the rest of the world?!!! Russia is not a super power anymore and i believe that it will never be again this is the era of democracy and that is something thay are not introduced with yet....

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dek Barbare, Rock Spring, GA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:28:07 GMT

Jim Maceda told the complete story and he told it like it is......great job Jim.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Alexander Denison, Eugene, OR — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:31:57 GMT

International Policy is based on government ideals. Russia represents a socialist government under a police state where a majority of resources, communication and infustructure are controled and monitored by the government, therefore there foreign policy will represent and act similarly. US of A's ideals are that of a smaller government roll that promotes the freedom of speech, trade and social values/beliefs.

Russian will naturally act beligerent, seizing control or acting with brute-posturing, where US will strive to aid the satellite countries to break-free from the socialist-grip, promoting free speech, trade and personal/social beliefs.

We as Americans ought to support the pandora box!
"Analysts here in Moscow also warn that the ripping of Kosovo from the Serbian province will open a Pandora's Box of potentially destabilizing ruptures all around the world: Chechens in Russia, ethnic Serbs in Bosnia, Russians in Moldova, Abkhazians in Georgia, Basques in Spain, just to name a few."
None of them ought to be forgotten, they should gain their independence!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

John Francisco — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:33:32 GMT

Otto von Bismark is report to have stated that the Balkans was not worth one Pomerianian Husar. It is not worth one American soldier or citizen. We seem to always fail to remember the history of the rest of the world and continue to follow the 1919 thoughts of Woodrow Wilson ie self determination for ever little tribe in the world. The United States government did not allow the southern states to secede from the uniton why should the Serbia give up their property to an outside group who should have been deported to Albania. Russia did threaten to cut the gas and oil supply to Europe not long ago and the Europeans caved in to Russia rather tan freeze. Do you really think Europr will support us if the issue goes to wall with Russia. If you are so interested in going to war join the Army and it can grant your wish otherewise think before you act and start studying the subjects you missed in high school relating to history and results obtrained when you go to war whether you win or lose. By the way I spent 30 years in the Army but only one year in a war and on the whole I would say that it was not particularily a fun time.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Andrew Manley — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:35:24 GMT

I think everyone's missing the real analysis. It's quite simple. Kosovo makes up a large part of what was formerly Serbia. Kosovo now declairing it's indepeandance, Serbia looses a large portion of population and influence in the world. Thus they loose access to land, water, minerals, and other various resources. It'd be much wiser for the people of Serbia to cooperate and support the independance of Kosovo. Being is the EU and US are the leaders in supporting Kosovo, a millitary rally to secure Kosovo would be highly successful. It happend a century ago and it's likely it can and if neccissary will happen again- milllitary achievement. Looking at the map on MSN, the M1 Highway wouldn't run through Kosovo (to my knowledge) therefore Serbia would still have access to a main road... Kosovo would have to start fresh... I don't understand the people of Serbia. Being from Kentucky our State Moto is "United We Stand, Divided We Fall." People take note of that. All is not lost in allowing Kosovo it's independance. The probablility for growth opportunities could increase in the region because so much energy is not going towards suppressing the Kosovars! Is there somehting I'm missing? Let them be free, let there be peace and let there be love.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

germain, sheffield, UK — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:37:36 GMT

mexicans will be the majority in texas and california one day and they will claim it as theirs. i wonder what the USA's going to do with that. The USA should be ashamed of their foreign policy. why not do the same for the palestinians or the kurds in turky and list goes on.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim Estes, Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:41:24 GMT

And to Eriola, Montreal, Canada.

Give me a break! Its a lie. They do that often in war. Get your facts right.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

IGOR, WASHINGTON DC METRO AREA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:50:07 GMT

I write this with anger and heavy heart due to the fact that I am Serbian and Russian and was born here in the US and my father being the same except for the fact that he was born in the former Yugoslavia. He came here with his two sisters and mother when his father sent for them when after he left Yugoslavia before the second war and after the rise of communism in Russia. My father was drafted into the US Army and served over 20 years willingly and voluntarily served a second tour of Korea and voluntarily 2 tours of Vietnam. So this is why it really sucks for my father and for my mother who very much believed in this country even though they are not from here originally. This is why I feel I have more than a right but a duty to respond for my family here and yes my family there that were supporters of America and lived through the illigal bombings of a soverign country that never declared war on the US or anyone else.
I have sat here and read every response and it is amazing that some get it, some don't, some just have no clue, and finally some want to twist history to suit their point of view. So I have to single out some of these people.
Pat you obviously are lacking in the edumacation department or just one of many being led by your nose like lambs to slaughter. Never anger a sleeping bear by continually poking it with a stick, it will end up mauling your dumb a$$.
To Mark you also need a clue and a history lesson, no one forced them to live together, they (Albanians) have over the course of 30 plus years immigrated into the territory of Kosovo legally and illegally to increase the overall majority of the territory. And yes there is a country called Albania that borders this territory and has been funded by AL Kida. Our boy Clinton knew this then and now and new of Osama's a$$ being in that territory and funding a group called the KLA, which was recognized as a terroist group in 1994 by our goverment and yet we sided with a terroist group. But I digress, back to my point, it seems very similar to another two countries that border each other oh yeah Mexico and the US. That's why if you have not gotten the reason why people have used the analogy regarding Texas and Mexico than stop responding and start learning history.
To Jacob when did we get the right or who gave us the right to be anyone else's watch dog or police. We can barely take care of ourselves let alone anyone else.
To the twisters of history Enklid and ZAHN or you just don't know your history. The Turks ruled the entire territory extending into greece and extending towards Germany and they did this for 500 plus years especially in the area known as the Balkans. The territory of Kosovo was Serbia before the Turks enslaved the Serbs which were the majority then and anyone else that did not fall into line under the Turkish rule. To Zahn you must be Albanian, why don't we talk about the drug traficking that comes from Albania freely and continues through Kosovo and also comes from there as welland continues to the rest of europe. Hash and Heroin are there main and only exports thanks to them and the CIA getting ther cut. I can say this because I have people that have been to Kosovo that worked for the goverment (US) and have seen it first hand, SHAMEFUL.
To Antoni Luka the Serbian people have never occupied Kosovo they have been the owners and caretakers of Kosovo. The Serbian people never took the land from anyone other than the Turks when they finally took back possesion of there land after 500 years of enslavement. Learn your history!
We SERBS are a proud people and have over many years taken a lot of $hit from all sorts. We are done with it we will be heard.
REMEBER THIS ONE THING I TELL MY PARENTS EVRYDAY TO KEEP THERE SPIRITS UP "LIFE AND EVRYTHING WE DO ON THIS PLANET IS CYCLICAL WHAT WE DO NOW WILL COME BACK AND BITE US IN THE A$$ IF WE ARE NOT CAREFUL". THE OLD SAYING GOES WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND. BE AWARE BE VERY AWARE.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Chris Buckley, Boston MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:54:16 GMT

John Masterson of Seattle, WA is an obvious traitor & needs a lesson in freedom before he should be allowed to speak again on this board. Have you ever been to Russia? Do you know their standard of living? All the oil & gas in the world can't help a backwards society like that. They think they can take shortcuts to a stable progrssive society but they will learn that it can't be done. The society must undergo a radical reconstruction before they can hope to ever be compared to the US. Their "brute force" is a hollow threat and they could never hope to challenge this country in military terms in any sphere regardless of the "shambles" our military is in at this moment. A "worn military machine"? If that were the case why isn't China moving to take back Taiwan? Why isn't Russia using their "brute military force" to invade & occupy Kosovo? Why isn't the DPRK invading S. Korea? We know why...because they can't. That's why. I agree, we have our problems but they pale in comparison to the problems of Russia & the majority of other countries in this world.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim Franklin, Chicago, Ill — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:54:36 GMT

The US doesn't fancy 'freedom and independence' - it sure didn't give the Confederate South its freedom. Kosova is the result of an INVASION of Muslims in 1389 taking land from Europe that wasn't theirs (this happened many times in many places in Europe by the Ottoman Turks until they were finally stopped in Vienna). The next step was increasing population, and now finally seceding. This is an example of what will happen to other parts of Europe as long as the continent in increasingly Islamified. Congrats to Putin on this one for standing up to Eurabia.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Ellie, Albuquerque, NM — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:57:29 GMT

I see a lot of comments about how we are supporting Muslims and how Kosova is the heart of Serbia. In what bases is Kosova the heart of Serbia. Kosova is an Albanian country. It was populated by Albanians and their forefathers (Ilirians) long before the Serbs made it down to the region. Kosovars have been treated terrible by the Serbs and in the most unimaginable and inhumane ways that a person can think of. In the '80 they put poison gas in Albanian language schools in Kosovo killing children, do you think that is right? The Albanian language schools were then closed and in the '98-'99 war the Serbs that lived in Kosova not only supported Milosevic in his horrible crimes against humanity (lets not forget Bosnia and the thousands that the Serbian army killed and raped) but when the Serbian army arrived in Kosovo many of the Serbs that live in Kosovo acted as spy to the army and became responsible for crimes that were being performed in Kosovo. I have had the opportunity to speak to some of the Kosovar families in my line of work and stories that I have heard and pictures that I have seen make me believe that Kosova should have been on its own long time ago. I fully believe that Kovoso will prosper and become a great to contributor to European economy just as many Kosovar citizens are already doing all across Europe.
Russia is something to worry about but I didn't expect any other reaction from them than we have seen so far. Serbia and Russia have always had strong ties and Serbian culture, alphabet and religion are similar to that of Russia. I hope that Kosovo continues to handle the situation as it has so far in the last 7 days by being calm and peaceful. Kosovar people have suffered so much from the Serbs and have always been treated as a second class on their own land I hope that now they make something of themselves and of their country.
Rroft Kosova e lire

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Paul Collin, Washington, D.C., USA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:58:16 GMT

Author Jim Maceda article "Kosovo Throws Wrench..." surrounding U.S.-Russia strained relations over Kosovo declaring independence, saw better accurizing, brevity, and clarity in the six (6) comments, of:

Jay Berry - Texas on February 22, 2008 Friday 5:22 PM;

Douglas Soileau Marbury - on February 22, 2008 Friday 6:06 PM

Zahn Hajdini - on February 22, 2008 Friday 11:24 PM;

James Luko - Beijing, China on February 22, 2008 Friday 11:07 PM;

Pierre-alain Seya - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 22, 2008 Friday 11:28 PM; and,

Eric - Chicago, IL on February 22, 2008 Friday at 6:21 PM.

But only two (2) of those comments touched on leading economic U.S. interests not exclusive to Kosovo but also Montenegro, namely "gold," which served to hide far more than the American Embassy U.S. State Department Diplomatic Security Service Regional Security Officer shooting in Beograd, Srbija of 21-year old Novi Sad, Srbija resident and partisan Zoran Vujović formerly of Caglavica, Srbija near Pristina, Kosovo.

What the news failed to cover was why the sons of Slobodan Milosecić - controlling the Serbija mafia, supported by Russia mafia finance, instigated the riot in Belgrade, Serbia and how the U.S. Boeing contract operations over the new Serbia based World Super Cargo Airport has been designed to crush Milosević mafia finance derived from all Srbija agricultural exports.

There really is more news behind what exists in the background of reports today. Care to pick up 'that' ball and run with it, Jim?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

ridvan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:03:02 GMT

russia and serbia their dream of great serbia,its over as far as some comments above about albanians beeing on the serbian land that is bull..t,clearley you dont know the history,serbian barbarians came from karpat maountain russia thats why they are called south slavic people because thay came from russia to balkans and invaded illyrian land.as far as USA is not strong now that is a bull...t america is number 1 in the world and will remain number one till the day of judgment god willing.why russian jews they are leaving russia because they been persecuted,secon world war only albanians opened the doors for them.long live america and albanians where ever they are,serbs gett it strait it is over,russia is a history.congratulate the kosovars the independence.kosova is dardanian land.serbs if you want to live in kosova official language is albanian,you can live there in peace.america stands tall,together with europe.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

bob pilc, la, california — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:03:30 GMT

how would we react if one day a region in the united states declare as an independent state.serbia was started in kosovo just like we started our country with a revolt against british. turks brought in a destruction and expeled many original serbs. the muslems of kosovo are the remainder of the turkish ocupation. will france or germany let turkish population separate and create an independent state?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Matthew — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:09:26 GMT

WOW, people forget genocide VERY VERY quickly.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

keith dookie, trinidad, west indes — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:09:55 GMT

this is not about right and wrong in russia's eyes but is rather an opportuity for Moscow to reassert itself as a proud power player on the world scene and to garner the fearful respect of the nations of the west and the rest of the world. those who were mighty never are comfortable with loss of such and this and any other similar situation will be utilised by the Russians to re-acquire its former world position. Watch as this nation continues to flex its muscles and shrug its shoulders in the future especially in the faceof a clearly weakening US power and prestige.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Bill, Wilmington, Del. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:12:20 GMT

The sad truth in all of this is that there is NO upside for the USA, ONLY downside in the ill-thought and all-too-quick rush to recognition of the moslamic republic of kosovo. All of the politically-correct, polite-liberal, pacifist wankers in Washington who seem obliged to do anything to appease the moslamics, are now waking up to the fact that they have not accomplished what they were hoping to. Instead, they have begun the destabilization of the Balkan region, soured US relations with Russia, China, Serbia, Spain and others, and have paved the way for escalating violence against US interests in the area. The wankers in Washington should have taken a "wait and see" position to see what developed. Unfortunately, the wankers put the hammer down and crossed the recognition line in record time. Now, somebody please tell us all where is the upside for the USA in the hasty recognition of Kosovo?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

lv, nv, usa — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:13:13 GMT

Please note that Kosovo is to Serbs what Mecca is to Muslims.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Christopher, Minneapolis, MN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:14:15 GMT

I have never seen such biased media coverage. The media has not once that I've seen even consider the Serb side of this, and has not questioned "Why" we had to stick our noses in (we're good at that) and recognize Kosovo's independence.
I have seen articles labeling the Serb protesters as "hooligans", "thugs" and speak of the "atrocities" committed by the Serbs against the Muslims there. No mention of Muslims there targeting Serbs, no mentions of Muslims burning down Orthodox Christian churches.
What I have seen is not news - it is propaganda.
Does Bush think using this territory as a pawn will make the Muslims "like us?" How ridiculous.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jack, Brunswick — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:18:57 GMT

The United States leading a group of other western powers has used the pretext of Kosovo being a "unique" case to abrogate international law. This "unique" case will stand only until another "unique" case is found by this posse' of nations. Now that the U.N. security council has been effectively neutered by unilateral action the genie is out of the bottle.
It would be interesting to know the true motive behind this seemingly incomprehensible act. What would prompt western nations to act against their own best interests and establish such a state within their midst?
United Press International has an interesting article entitled "Outside View: Kosovo Independence Grenade" that should be read by the geniuses in D.C. that came up with this policy.
Now, I've got to run and catch up the latest on the Brittany Spears and the Scott Peterson affairs.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

jd — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:22:46 GMT

the person that said this was about GOLD? very interesting? Perhaps not precious metals but Heavy metals???

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

BP, Phoenix,AZ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:24:47 GMT

The U.S. is the bully and has been for some time. Our government has taken advantage of Kosovo and situations over there since Russia's economy has been messed up for a decade or two. Now that Putin has their economy and military going, his nation is starting to throw their weight around, and our leaders don't like it. There was an analogy of Kosovo above that compared it to Texas being overwhelmed by Mexicans and then them declaring it an independent nation while Russia had been supporting it for ten years. Americans would hate Russians if that happened, so why are we surprised Serbians are pissed at us? The U.S. has already passed a bill to unionized us with Canada and Mexico (www.spp.gov), and I believe it has done this to help increase the size of the military to stay at the top of the list as a world power(separate countries working together bound by a union policy). I believe this to be the reason the feds are actually accelerating inflation - to send our economy out of control and use fear of our money becoming worthless to convince Americans it's a good idea. Research the the North American Union and you might start to see where I'm coming from. I PRAY I'M WRONG, but it's not looking good.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Alex , Bethesda , MD. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:29:54 GMT

Why no one asks the Kosovo's Albanians to go back to Albania? Just pack up and return to your homeland! In the process we all be alive and thernkful to the kosovars for saving us from a potential conflict.
By the way, Austria-Hungeria Empire and Germany started WWI and not Russia.

Alex

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Louis Bikadi, Denver, Colorado — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:34:20 GMT

I do not understand the reasoning of the Serbs. They lost a fateful battle and their independence in the 14th century to the Ottoman Empire in Kosovo. When Hungary lost World War I, Serbia received the Southern part of Hungary that was part of Hungary for 1000 years. By the way, one of the most famous battles of the Hungarians took place in 1456 in the defense of Belgrade agains the Turks that was a Hungarian border fortress that time. And the Hungarians won that battle and that was significant eneough to keep the Turks away for 70 years. Why do the Serbs think that they had the right to Southern Hungary (Bacska) in 1918 without being majority in that province? Transylvania was given in 1918 to Romania where Hungarians had at least 50% of the population. Transylvania was part of Hungary over 1,000 years and as such, it was more Hungarian than present Hungary, most of which was occupied by the Ottoman Empire for 150 years. Transylvania has more continuos significance in Hungarian history than Kosovo for the Serbs.
The Serbs have been extremely lucky after Worl War I because the USA put together a large country for them and they were very stupid and lost it. It is ridiculous to claim a province where they lost a battle in the 14th century.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Anthony, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:42:05 GMT

I am so tired of hearing about how bad America is for Iraq and foreign missile installations. Saddam Hussein encouraged suicide bombers to attack American targets, and provided financial incentives. By being in Iraq, we are defending ourselves. Blood for oil? Ooops- turned out those opposed to America's ousting of Saddam were receiving oil for food. Russia needs to quit being paranoid and narcissistic- missiles in Eastern Europe don't necessarily have anything to do with Russia. The extremist Iranians (not all Iranians, mind you) have been burning the American flag since Khomeini in the 70's; anyone who thinks that America's presence in Iraq has somehow caused anti-American sentiment among Arab extremists needs to be reminded of that. Come on you guys, check your "bleeding heart" (in case you don't know, that expression refers to people who are blindly overly sympathetic)with a little reason, and realize that America doesn't want foreign soil at all, we only want to be safe on ours, and we're not stupid enough to fight those battles on our land. We didn't start the conflict with the extremists, Soviet or Arab, but we're going to finish it. By acknowledging Kosovo's freedom, we are not inciting violence or chaos at all, we are merely acknowledging what has already been done. Anyone who says otherwise is using the U.S. as a whipping boy, and they're wrong to do so.
GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dusty, middle of Kosovo — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:43:22 GMT

Matthew, I couldn't agree more!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Sam P Jackson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:47:14 GMT

The United States has changed its opinions on secession in the last 140 years. Remember Jefferson Davis, Robt E Lee? Or maybe secession is OK if it's some OTHER country's state that wants to secede.

The Aztlan movement among Hispanics in the US Southwest wants TX AZ NM and Southern California to secede from the USA and join Mexico. How do President Bush and Sect'y Rice feel about that?

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Dusty, middle of Kosovo — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:50:06 GMT

The reporter seems to have a very slanted view of how and why we got into this situation over here and mentions that no one payed attention to Russia. I found it very offensive as a servicemember that this reporter who has been to Kosovo less then half a dozen times apparantly knows more about the situations keeping us here than the dozens of diplomats who have been working with all kosovars (Albanian and Serbian) for nearly a decade now.

I wonder who he is referring to when he states "and for many in the west it's frightening"? I don't understand who he thinks is frightened by Russia's and Serbia's very vocal disagreement with Kosovo declaring itself an independant country. This was completely and totally expected.

The reporter quotes Russian analysts as saying the "west" has grossly miscalculated Kosovo's importance to Serbians. I think this is categorically incorrect. From what I gather, the diplomats and military leaders serving here have taken extraordinary measures to ensure the up and coming government in Kosovo has a place for ALL inhabitants of Kosovo, not just the majority Albanians. This is most evident in the selection of their flag.

The reporter then uses the term "ripping Kosovo from Serbia" inferring that Kosovo's independance is some new idea that has been pursued on a whim. The fact is that Kosovo has been a UN administered province for over 8 years and that both sides have stood their ground from day one. Albanians have decreed to accept nothing less than full independence and Serbia will not concede an inch towards that end.

It baffles me how our country can stand for freedom, yet be so quick to condemn those that make it a reality for those who have never experienced it.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

mike lemer, chicago, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:52:17 GMT

to Pat:
i am glad you think that US is not a bully. US invaded Iraq on charges of having WMD, none are found to this date, if US had any shame they would have pulled out immediately. count in how many conflicts US has been in the past 15 years and how many countries it invaded, and then count in how many Russia has been and then say who is a bully.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Johnathan, London (now Paris), UK (now France, not Kentucky) — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:58:21 GMT

Russia WILL use any pretext now to re-enter the Super-Power scene. However, it is not quite the “bully” that some commentators here, who probably never stepped outside of the Bible Belt, would claim it to be. Everywhere that the US has left a burning footprint under the banner of “peace”, there was no one left but Russia, even in its post-Soviet days, to pour a bucket over it. And oh, if anybody still believes in that Berezovski-fabricated campaign that Polnikova was “assassinated” by Putin, they certainly should start digging deeper and quit reading what the Berezovski-fed editors of mainstream newspapers regurgitate unto them. You don’t really need to go too far; just type it in on Google and check out, for instance, Scotland Yard’s research, read some more about the Putin-Berezovski-Polnikova triangle, and so on. Active reading can be good for you. Much better than passive acceptance of whatever yellow tabloid balderdash is easiest to get without moving more of a finger than what’s needed to zap to another mainstream channel - rivers that run from the same source.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Jim ,PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:58:45 GMT

I hope America can now see "Peacekeeping" is a waste of time and money and next time we see ethnic cleansing and genocide ,we should turn off the T.V. and wait and see who wins. The U.S. was providing the majority of the troops and money for SFOR and KFOR missions for over a decade while NATO countries with large militaries sat home and sent the minimal amount of troops for this "feel good mission". I hope we learned our lesson on this idea of Peacekeeping and never get sucked into it again. President Clinton never got the credit for this expensive deployment that made Kellog ,Brown and Root richer for over a decade. Who do we blame ? I blame Tito , because he never left a solid plan that would keep Yugoslavia together after he died .So next time when a communist leader dies we should let nature take its course.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Adam, Orlando — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:01:51 GMT

Ignorance is bliss. For all of you "Americans" that say we are the bully, you need to wake up. Did America do anything, no we did not. We recognized them as a country. So cry me a river for supporting muslims, if you know anything at all about history you know that we Christains are the must brutal and ruthless religious sect in the world bar none. Get over you self righteous attitudes and wake up. Kosovo has been under Russian control for quite some time and they haven't liked it very much, they want freedom. Go to Russia and tell me if you like their brand of freedom. Also enough of this the US military is weak, the economy is falling apart cry me a river. Yeah the Russians are finally getting their act together, and yet they will never come close the money we control. 9.3 trillon dollar debt damn, well we had a surplus of over 15 trillon just a few years back, so don't get your panties in a knot. Your staggering ignorance baffles me I hope you can find solace in the fact that you are not American, nor do you even act the part speaking out of line. I would love to see Russian tanks roll into Kosovo, oh wait that wouldn't happen, why? Because, they are afraid of us. Get over yourselves.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

boris slo california — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:12:28 GMT

did we let south to declare an independence? serbia has a much stronger claim. than north did to keep the union.
let serbs regain control or we will have another world conflict just like ww1 and ww2.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

bonaparte,miami fl — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:12:32 GMT

Russia will never be taken serious by the west with simple empty rethorics,they will have to mean business or their days as a Great Civilization will be numbered or else become a member of Nato or EU.lose their Pride that over taken Napoleon and Hitler.treats from their west-side by EU and nato with land-conquets , Muslim-fanatics by their south west-side,over crowded China in south east-side and a crowded Japan.It is a difficult task with a declining poulation to protect the immense and richest land on earth.those States that bordering Russia that allied themselves with west militarily put themselves at risk for total destructions,while RUssia with its huge cold territory can absorb a lot of nuclear- strikes without going blink.They will have to have more forceful or dissuasive power to over come their lack of man-power.It's not bcause they are bad people ,it's what they have to do to survive,their policy during the cold war was never to use nuclear-weapons first,if they say now even a conventional attack will meet a nuclear ripost maybe they have no way around. I presume the Russians contrary to muslim-fanatics, love mankind they will do their best not to arrive at that.please try to understand their situation,their position,by themselves minding their own affairs, they do not want to become a member of the all whites EU-NATO PACT with the UN as their puppet.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Youra — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:15:36 GMT

Hey Yankee hands off Serbs!

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

bonaparte,miami fl — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:16:55 GMT

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Mike, Canada — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:19:57 GMT

A strong and healthy US wouldn't have much to worry, but given the current situation the US should be. The economy is not in good shape, Iraq continues to add to the national debt, Iraq continues to wear down the military prowess without end in sight and finally, the Bush administration has sent the US's international respect down the toilet. The amount of things that need to be done before the US can be healthy again is staggering. It can't afford another war, especially not with a russia backed china. I'd say that the cold war has come full circle and reversed itself.

Kosovo throws wrench into U.S.-Russian relations

Artur — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:22:11 GMT

Why would 90% of albanians in Kosovo want to be ruled from the serb-russian-regime?
Please think and accept the final justice.
Kosovo is the land Albanias(Illyrians-Pellasg).
Slavs(serbs)settled there much later.
The pope and vatican has the original story saved in their archives. EU agreed to repair their damage done to Albanians fifty years ago when they divided albania and gave Kosova to ex yougoslavia. US is the only country that has the good will to make it happen period. Russia and China are monsters of the world