In the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, President Vladimir Putin of Russia has been aiding the U.S. war on terrorism, and cooperating in other areas as well. Some experts say Russia has made such great strides toward democracy and free-market economics in recent years that it could become an important American ally — and some day even a member of the vital North Atlantic Treaty Organization. But others argue that Russia still does not share America's goals and values, and thus is not ready for closer U.S ties, or NATO membership. Meanwhile, U.S.-Russian relations have been somewhat strained by President Bush's planned withdrawal — over Putin's objections — from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.

David Masci specializes in social policy, religion and foreign affairs. Before joining CQ Researcher as a staff writer in 1996, he was a reporter at CQ's Daily Monitor and CQ Weekly. He holds a BA in medieval history from Syracuse University and a law degree from The George Washington University.