Yea, it is easier to assume the post of superpower/colonial empire either by default or willingly than to cast it off. That is the position Mr. O is in, he has to act the part and convincingly so. It goes with the territory. I wonder if Mr. Putin is suffering from withdrawal from the loss of the Soviet/Colonial Empire? Makes you wonder if he wants some or all of the former glory days back. Whatever they are playing at it is a risky business.

Bob