It's not the same Nate...in Germany's case it was the fight between two top dogs
I agree, it is not exactly the same. But I don't see that much difference either. There is always fight for power on any political area.
Juszenko (Yushenko) started his tenure but I can see him organising some behind-the-scenes support for Chechens.
I very much doubt it, but even if (still, it is basically impossible) - what's the problem?
Who else will lead the slavic union if not Moscow?
Well, BB, you clearly have no high opinion of Slavic countries besides Germany's beloved Russia. The West knows that as long as Russian Federation is the bully in the region it would be easy to manipulate the whole Eastern Europe to its own benefit. Slavs can come up with some Brussels of their own - let's say - Bratislava - a great center for a Slavic union. In my opinion, any presence of Russia is a sign of no viable competition. The region will remain a dumping site for European left-overs.
And will all the others agree?
Do they agree in the EU all the time? Besides Slavic Union would be more of a confederation than a federation type structure as the EU seems to be. There won't be any "persuasive" pressures from the big boys in case there is a disagreement.
Will the Ukrainians agree with Warsaw? Will the Poles agree with Kiev?
If Iceland agrees with Bulgaria, I don't see why neighboring countries like Ukraine and Poland should be difficult on agreement.
I don't believe really in a "we all will lead" scenario...there will always be stronger and weaker ones.
Of course, but this is only when too much is given up to the Union. In the Slavic Union each will have its own choice. Areas of defense, scientific cooperation, medecine might be more on a common solution grounds.
To exclude Russia would be to set the union off on an unstable footing and they'd instantly become a target.
Why? It would be a third player.
Slavs have to work with more than their hearts. Celts learned that too
We do. But where are the Celts now?
I have to go, but I will be here later, guys.