NEW OBSTACLE TO START RATIFICATION?

Russian sources have indicated in recent days that newly-named Russian defense minister Igor Rodionov is a staunch opponent of the START II Treaty. It has also been pointed out that Rodionov served a stint as Moscow’s chief military adviser in Damascus, a fact that may assume some significance as Russia moves to reassert its influence in the Middle East. (ORT & Segodnya, July 18)

Moscow Applauds Cuba Decision.