Russia's right to safeguard its national security can't be ignored

THE former superpower, Russia, has declared that its foreign policy goal is to become "a great world power". Yet, there are obstacles: the policy articulates deep worries over American domination of the world order and the eastward expansion of the military forces of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) close to Russian borders.

The Russians saw a fleeting glimpse of the US softening its stand when Washington did not advise major US firms not to attend the annual St Petersburg International Economic Forum that has been held since 1997 under the auspices of the Russian president. The event, held early in June, saw investors talking to President Vladimir Putin and his top officials.

The US had cautioned American firms against attending the forum for the past three years after Russia annexed Crimea in 20…