Russia, What's Up?

By Dan Hamblin

The Lower House, approved 418-0 a law allowing Russia to stop complying with the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty. This only needs final approval from the Upper House of Parliament and President Vladimir Putin which is slated for December 12.
Mr Putin gave formal notice in July that Russia would suspend treaty, considered a cornerstone of European security by the west. Of course the United States and other countries may view this as a possible threat to their personal security. This treaty limits the amount of heavy artillery and combat planes that can de used between the Atlantic and the Ural mountains.
Russia sees the treaty as outdated and limits their military and wants "western powers" to revise the treaty.
Personally I believe they are trying to flex their "military muscle". Seems to me like Russia is going back to a Cold War type of atmosphere. The law in effect in regards to the treaty gives Putin the option to withdraw Russia's participation in the treaty or to place themselves in it again as he sees fit.