Quote Originally Posted by Brian Hanley View Post
But the player here that is not being focused on is the Kremlin...
. . .

My view of the Kremlin's goals (in a region that is as close to it as Mexico and Guatemala are to us) is that the neo-FSB patriots aim to take over 60% to 70% of the world's oil supplies by 2015. Barring that, they aim to destroy it or stir the pot to ensure regular price increases in order to raise the wounded bear back up on its feet.
I'd suggest only two caveats. Putin visited Iran and he talked a lot -- but he didn't really say anything. They got no promises from him...

Also note that your stated presumed goal of oil supply control is probably true but we, China and India may have other ideas.

As they say, "the other guy gets a vote."