“Europe is no longer the sole source of inspiration for modernization in Russia,” you quote Fyodor Lukyanov, editor of a Russian journal dealing with foreign affairs (“From Cukes to Nukes,” June 11, 2011). What a sweet way of putting it! As the rest of your article shows, Russia and the European Union have been drifting apart. More and more Russians see Europe as a tourist destination only. But there should be plenty for the Europeans and Russians to discuss, you argue. Russian gas will be needed even more after the German decision to abandon nuclear power as soon as practicable. In addition, about half of Russia’s foreign trade is still with the Union. However, you also point out that Russia’s trade with China has doubled last year. It is likely to double again in a short while. And Russian gas will surely be something the Chinese will be eyeing ever more eagerly. In the competition between Europe and China for Russian gas, China is likely to be the winner, too. Yes, you are right: there should be plenty for the European and Russians to discuss. And soon.