Bush Warns Moscow

US President George Bush, currently on an official visit in Europe, has made a speech in Belgium, dedicated to the state of world affairs and Atlantic solidarity between the Old and New Worlds.

Speaking on international affairs, G. Bush lauded Ukraine for its free elections, and Israel and Palestine Autonomy for their commitment to peace.

Then criticisms followed. Bush rapped Iran for its nuclear program, and Syria for occupying Lebanon.

Russia, as US President said, should have respect for democracy and abide by the law. On that condition the US would welcome Russia entering the WTO and transatlantic community.

"For Russia to make progress as a European nation, the Russian government must renew a commitment to democracy and the rule of law", Bush said.

US authorities are worried by Russian President Vladimir Putin's desire to concentrate power in his hands by abolishing the election of provincial governors, as well as by his failed attempt to assure the victory for a Moscow-chosen candidate in Ukrainian presidential election. Besides, some politicians in Washington are worried by the "Yukos case", seeing it as the Kremlin's retreat from the market economy principles and rule of law, stressed US President.

"We recognize that reform will not happen overnight. We must always remind Russia, however, that our alliance stands for a free press, a vital opposition, the sharing of power and the rule of law... The United States and European countries should place democratic reform at the heart of their dialogue with Moscow ".

Russia's business ties with Iran and Syria whom Washington has termed as "outposts of terrorism", became another circumstance that soured US-Russian relations, despite diplomatic efforts made by both parties.

V. Putin and G. Bush are due to meet at a summit in Bratislava on February 24.