I’d put the following proposal to Putin. Recognition of the territories of the former USSR as being Russian, with the exception of the three Baltic nations, plus US support against any threats in the form of China or Islam. In return I would require peace and quiet over there, discreet assistance where needed (such as resupplying the forces in Afghanistan), and faithful delivery of oil and gas.

In short, an alliance. The US and Russia need each other to buy time. Time for us to develop our own energy resources. Time for Russia to restock its people.

One cubicle gulag zek’s opinion.