Explores key issues facing Russia from a Western point of view, examining areas including nuclear weapons, NATO enlargement, economic reform, and financial crises. Argues that, in each of these areas, Western efforts have proven highly successful in converting a superpower into a toothless tiger. Looks at recent developments in crime in Russia and implications for US interests, and explains how the once robust research and development community in Russia has been gutted by Western interests luring scientists to the West. Discusses Russia's religious laws, the dismantling of her conventional armed forces, and economic reforms stimulated and financed by the West which led to financial crisis and crime. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)