Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has told Russian state television that US military bases in Central Asia should close up shop once the security situation in Afghanistan eases. Beyond that, says Lavrov, a US presence in the traditional Russian sphere of influence will not be necessary. We are always happy to be of service.
Amid NATO’s continued push to ramp up air defenses in Eastern Europe, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall swung by seven allied countries to boost relations last week, including those on Russia’s and Ukraine’s doorstep.