The Cold War with Soviet Communism has ended, however pre-WWI global hegemonic rivalry apparently has reappeared. Russia is trying to be a hegemon in its region of influence. Currently super power America is rivaling regional influence. The old Soviet Union and the old Czarist Russia both would find this intolerable. As far as American National Interests goes, Russia will be an untrustworthy partner as long as we influence or make enemies of nations on Russia's border. That would be Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran and the Ukraine as just a few examples. Russia is even willing to cuddle up with long time enemies like China and Islamofascist Mohammedans to counter American influence. Can America trust Russia? No.

A significant amount of former Soviet bloc nations are in the EU or have applied to be in the EU. Some have applied for NATO membership. Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan have been Islamofascist nations that the current regime has supported when America has been an enemy. America has taken Iraq and Afghanistan down and we are saber rattling with Iran.

None of this can bode well with Russia. Historically Russia has been consumed with regional security. Ever since Ivan the Terrible began to emerge a Russian identity, regional hegemony has been an agenda related to National Security. Remember this is a land ravaged by homeland wars from Mongols, Mohammedans and all the way to the twentieth century of Nazi occupation.

If Russia is able, she will confront America wherever possible. Why? It will always be the view of National Security, just as it is for America.

Hat tip to the Chicago Tribune.