Russian-American relations have once again been thrust into the forefront of the national consciousness. There’s even talk of Putin extraditing Edward Snowden to the U.S. in hopes of sweetening relations, as if the proposed border wall and the enacted-then-suspended travel ban weren’t enough. But expect to see more of Russia because, as much as I hate to say, it’s in the United States’ best interest to befriend the Russians.
Now, befriending Russia doesn’t mean we get all cozy with one another and have a warm, fuzzy feeling about our new pal Putin. There are a plethora of issues surrounding Russian relations, especially the debacle between National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
The fact that Flynn spoke with Kislyak about Obama-imposed sanctions on Russia before President Trump took office is reprehensible. Flynn also misled Vice President Pence regarding his ethically questionable phone call with the Russian ambassador.
Flynn’s resignation as national security adviser exacerbates the current situation. It seems that President Trump has no real coordination between him and his staff regarding the matter. And that in itself is a major issue for the national security of the United States.
But this is nothing new.
The Russians have constantly meddled in our affairs, pursuing anything to make it harder for us. They are involved with both Iran and Syria, whether that is monetary funding or military funding through the shipment of weapons. These are both areas that the United States has a vested interest in, with Russia conveniently taking the opposing side.
And honestly, you can’t blame them too much. They are surrounded by the West. Most of their neighboring countries are part of NATO, and the U.S. has a plethora of bases throughout Europe. Not to mention the missile defense systems in Eastern Europe held over from the Cold War. But despite all these facts, we still would benefit greatly from a friendlier Russia, especially if there is a shred of hope in ending the conflict in Syria.
The Russians are crucial in to resolving Syria. There’s no way around this fact. The Russians have a vested interest in Syria: a warm-water port. This interest dates back to when Tsar Peter the Great ruled. Russia has always wanted a capable, powerful navy and multiple places to stage that navy.
So, give it to them.
Use that fact as a bargaining chip. Use it to get the Russians to play ball. If they can secure their interest then the United States can leverage them to help in Syria, to depose Bashar al Assad. Tell the Russians to help us with Iran, and most importantly, tell them to become a bigger participant in the fight against radical Islamic terrorism. These things can only become possible if we consider Russia a partner in this world and not ostracize them as we have been for the past 100 years.
And for those of you who would scoff at the fact that we’d align ourselves with an intolerant nation, especially for Russia’s reputation with the LGBTQ community, let me point you to the example of Saudi Arabia. Does sharia law mean anything to you? We apparently have no problem allying with a country that enforces the oppressive doctrine that still stones people as punishment for crime and is devoid of the concept of women’s rights. But Saudi Arabia is too important to have as an ally in the Middle East to throw away their partnership based on their actions, albeit heinous.
Battles must be chosen wisely. Do we rule out the alliance with Russia because of their oppressive government and grievances against the United States? Or do we save it for later, and rally behind them and usher in the possibility of solving some of these massive global issues? The big picture takes precedent here. The Syrian conflict has dragged on long enough, destabilizing the region and contributing to the suffering of millions. There’s plenty of time for Russia to answer for grievances against the United States, but now is not that time.