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Originally posted by onetime2
I wouldn't count Russia out just yet. You're talking about a country that has a lot of nationalism. They were a superpower for a long time and the fall in influence and international respect hurts that pride. They embraced capitalism only to see conditions worsen for many and power transfer from the politicos to the mafia. It is not a stable situation and an enthusiastic leader with a strong message that taps into that nationalism could turn the tide.
I haven't put all that much stock in the anti american feelings. When it comes down to it, I think there're too many common roots among our societies for it to get too bad. Yeah there will be disagreements and outright fights, but ultimately we mostly share common beliefs.
I agree that you don't need our military bases right now and that they aren't that much of a help anyway since the most likely first steps if an aggressive state came to be in the area would be towards places where bases traditionally have not been.
As for what we could do to help the EU, I'm not sure there's anything we could do right now other than remain close to Great Britain and Spain since they are two of the biggest losers in the France/Germany coalition.
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Think maybe you're overestimating the nationalism of Russia from the Soviet era. (Maybe, I wasn't born in that place and period so I don't know for sure), but conditions weren't fantastic in the cold war period. The populace was probably under constant fear, and would've had to deal with bad situations. I doubt memories of that time are glorious. Besides, some economic figures as well as standard of living figures show that Russia is improving since the application of a democratic system (albeit improving slowly).
At least, I'd hope that what I say is right, but I think I'd agree with Nad Adams point that the system they've adopted would mean they'd be more likely to attempt to strengthen internally before starting war.