Why Did Russia Welcome a Republican Victory

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed George W. Bush’s victory in the U.S. presidential race before the announcement of the official results. The contemporary Russian political elite has preferred conservative, more pragmatic Republicans led by George Bush over liberal, less predictable Democrats such as John Kerry. Russia is satisfied with its relations with the United States and is not interested in any changes. Russia under Putin and the United States under George Bush have become partners. Putin was the first among foreign leaders to call Bush following the September 11 attacks to offer Russia’s support. Since that time Putin has consistently supported the U.S. efforts at fighting international terrorism in all its forms. Russia and the U.S. act as traditional nation-state actors protecting their national interests and national security. Both leaders define the security of the nation as a first priority. That’s why, despite disagreements over the U.S.led action in Iraq, the bilateral relationship between Washington and Moscow remains firm. There are two key rational elements in this relationship: the need to cooperate on WMD nonproliferation and the fight against terrorism.