The first debate--Russia

Obama emphasized the importance of defending the independence of the small countries in the near-abroad, including keeping NATO membership open for Georgia and Ukraine. However, firmness with the Russians would have to dovetail with areas of common interest, such as non-proliferation. He got in a good shot regarding Bush's claim to have seen into Putin's soul.

McCain made an interesting point on Obama's statement at the onset of the Russian-Georgian war about both sides needing to show restraint not being an accurate assessment of the moral balance. McCain also made a good point, in which Obama concurred, about the fact that the Russian incursion was also about the pipeline and Ukraine.

Obama was able to use the pipeline issue to emphasize the need for alternative energy sources. McCain readvocates offshore drilling. I think that overlooks the Office of Energy Adminstration's report stated that developing such resources wouldn't have a significant impact. In 2030, there would only be an anticipated 7.2% in domestic oil production and 18% in domestic gas production--hardly enough.