Russia: Friend or Foe?

After the collapse of the Soviet Union many people are left wondering--what does Russia want? Faced with political instability and a crumbling economy, as a military power Russia is a shadow of its old Soviet self, and that poses dangers as well as opportunities. Russia still holds a formidable nuclear arsenal, and one in danger of proliferating throughout an unstable region. As money for traditional defense dwindles, the Russian military is relying more and more on its nuclear capability. Russia's generals are also increasingly suspicious of the west's intentions. The video examines the military's role in bloody offensives in the former Soviet territories, and weighs the possibility that the military might step into any power vacuum. This program will be useful to serious students and policy planners concerned with the Russian problem. The documentary doesn't propose any solutions and will likely be quickly eclipsed by events, but it intends to spark intelligent debate and creative thinking on a vital defense issue. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)