Different Approaches for Russia and China

Hard Russia vs. Soft China. An excellent analysis of hard power and soft power and how each country has used a distinct style to achieve their goals. Russia is increasingly isolated over the Georgia situation, while China has looked good during the Olympics (although they failed to keep their promise and allow press freedom). Also mentions lessons for the US, like how we need to devote more resources to diplomats, which I happen to agree with. The military still needs funding too though. It is just like Teddy Roosevelt said a century ago: "Speak softly and carry a big stick." We would be wise to follow that advice more closely, although I think Bush and Rice have done a decent, albeit nearly unreported, job in keeping diplomatic pressure on Russia and Iran, while also discussing what to do about North Korea with China, especially with the Kim Jong Il health situation. The new President will have a tough task getting up to speed on all the situations happening around the world.