letter to the editors of a few Oregon papers

Today, I'd like to share concerns that I have about U.S. Foreign policy and the consequences it could have. Those who've read my books know that I don't support absolute democracy or any mainstream politicians. Nonetheless, I welcome Obama's calls for a more diplomatic stance toward the rest of the world.

But our biggest challenge, and the greatest threat to the American people, is not Islamic: it's Russian Orthodox. They have an armada not only of nuclear but hydrogen bombs that could dwarf Hiroshima and Nagasaki. And yet our government and press, insanely, has taken a very hard line on issues like South Ossetia. I couldn't believe it when both Obama and McCain personally insulted Putin(whom I don't "support" either) during the first debate. We don't always choose world leaders, but we MUST deal with them with courtesy.

It's of the utmost importance to keep belligerent states, and Al Qaeda, from getting nukes. If we and Europe continue to alienate Russia, we can't be sure theirs will remain in sane hands. We need to reach out to their people and usher in a new era of diplomacy and civilization. I urge my fellow citizens to do this personally as well as through governments, which haven't changed as much as some think.