The Influence of U.S. Domestic Politics on BMD Negotiations

An unofficial proposal by four U.S. senators from the Republican Party to put a ballistic missile defense (BMD) radar system in Georgia has drawn praise from Tbilisi and criticism from Moscow. U.S. President Barack Obama's administration is currently taking a delicate approach to BMD talk, attempting to placate its Central European allies with nonspecific promises that do not upset Russia while it winds down its wars in the Middle East. However, the administration could be forced to change its tone if Republicans make BMD an issue ahead of the 2012 presidential election.