Russian dissident Pavel Stroilov worries that President Barack Obama’s re-election will embolden hardline world leaders.
In a recent interview, he also gave his interpretation of Obama’s remark to then-President Dmitry Medvedev of Russia that he would have more “flexibility” after the election to negotiate a new missile defense treaty.
“This means, ‘I can’t do it now, because American voters do not want it. But I don’t care what American voters want, I care what my friend Vladimir wants. I will do it. Just give me some time to fool the American voters, to pretend I am tougher than I really am, and then we will fix it, don’t worry,'” Stroilov said.
“I mean, I can’t read it in any other way. I am sorry if that sounds disrespectful towards your president, but that’s what it means in English,” he said.
Stroilov lives in London and has been a frequent critic of President Vladimir Putin.
Look for the full interview with Stroilov Monday.
Mrs. Thomas does not necessarily support or endorse the products, services or positions promoted in any advertisement contained herein, and does not have control over or receive compensation from any advertiser.