Saturday September 3, 2005

I've Been Thinking:

Russian President Vladimir Putin really stuck his foot in his mouth yesterday.
He spoke the truth, but his truth is detrimental to his country.

Speaking to families and survivors on the anniversary of the horrific terror attack that took place last year in Beslan Russia School #1 Putin said:
"I must say, immediately, I agree with those who believe that the state is not in the condition to provide for the security of its citizens to the necessary degree."

It seems clear that the Russian model of fighting terror is not very practical.
Their objective in a hostage situation is to kill the terrorists, not to save hostages. We were witness to that model in the Moscow theater and again in Beslan.

The very essence of his and the state's responsibility to its citizens is security and safety. If the President thinks himself incapable of shouldering that responsibility he should step down or do what it takes to improve the situation.

World leaders cannot and should not capitulate to terrorist demands. Leaders must show power and strength in face of terror and bring citizens together united against the evil.

The comments made by Putin did exactly the opposite.
His words should be even stronger than his actions.
Take no prisoners. Seek and destroy.