In Russia, Hagel (R-Ne.)says U.S. needs to work on relationship

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=1100&u_sid=10234157

Published Thursday | January 17, 2008


BY JOSEPH MORTON
WORLD-HERALD BUREAU


WASHINGTON — The United States and Russia need to work on what has become a "brittle" relationship, Sen. Chuck Hagel, R-Neb., said Wednesday from Moscow.

Hagel traveled to Russia this week for meetings with government officials, business executives and non-government organizations.


Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, left, welcomes U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel, R-Neb., during their meeting in Moscow on Wednesday. Hagel says relationships with Russia are critical to U.S. security.


He said Russia will play a critical role in world affairs in the future. It is, after all, a nuclear superpower and controls vast natural resources such as oil, natural gas and timber.

Hagel cited specific issues that have been threatening to drive a wedge between the nations.

The United States has backed statehood for Serbia's Kosovo region, while Russia has resisted such a move. Russia also has opposed U.S. efforts to put an anti-missile system in Poland and Czechoslovakia.

Hagel said the United States failed to consult with Russia on its anti-missile plans and handled the situation "sloppily."

FULL story at link.