Public opinion throughout the western world appears to be in a state of serendipity when it comes to nuclear weapons. Something will come along from somewhere and make the world safe from nuclear war. But reality is far different. Russian nuclear forces are deteriorating, both materially and in their command and control systems. By the day an unauthorized launch becomes more likely. The Chinese-Taiwan situation could sometime in the next few years erupt into a major military crisis, pushing the US to confront China, a situation that could lead to two nuclear-armed powers firing missiles at each other. Nuclear proliferation, as we have seen the last two years, is becoming more and more likely and Kashmir and the Middle East remain nuclear tinderboxes. But beyond that is the creeping hostility that much of the rest of the world feels as Washington presses its superfluous nuclear advantage. By making no effort to deliver on what it has publicly and solemnly promised a number of times -- and once again earlier this year -- to initiate serious nuclear disarmament, it encourages other states to resist American foreign policy goals, given half a chance. Even good friends such as Canada, France, Germany and Sweden get gripped with this anti-American angst from time to time. It doesn't augur well for long term American interests if the country's leadership is regarded as arrogant and needlessly militaristic.
President Putin has rightly seized his moment. Can Bush or Gore seize their's? A statement of intent in reply, as they hunker in their bunkers awaiting the electorate's verdict, would be a welcome sign that they are still in touch with reality.
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