The (Ex) Washington Realist

Last week, when Dmitry Peskov was speaking here, those of you who saw the event noted that I asked a question about his characterization of the U.S.-Russia relationship as "an" important relationship for Russia, but perhaps no longer the central relationship for Russia, and his response--that Russia would pursue essentially the multipolar option.

Then I was sent this interview with India's former national security advisor Brajesh Mishra. Just to give the context, he is a strong supporter of the U.S.-India nuclear deal and of improved ties with the U.S. But he rejects the idea that an improved relationship between New Delhi and Washington is America doing a favor for India--and doesn't see why this requires India to abandon other profitable ties. He says,

"But we should not give importance only to the Indo-US dialogue. When French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown or Russian President Vladimir Putin [Images] come here don't they discuss similar issues? Why should we give importance only to the Indo-US dialogue? There is Indo-French, Indo-UK, Indo-European and Indo-Russia dialogue going on. What is happening is that India is beginning to have its voice heard in an international sphere."

Spokes and hub approach isn't going to work.