Washington knows that during the last decade, as America was distracted in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Russians took advantage in what they call their ‘near abroad’, regaining a solid footing in places such as Kazakhstan and seizing territory in Georgia. Belatedly, and somewhat half-heartedly, the Americans have been trying to roll back Russian gains. President Trump has made overtures to Moscow and sought a personal relationship with Putin, but the differences between the two countries are greater than the bond between their leaders.
