When Kosovo declared independence from Serbia, Bush, not thinking of the consequences, instantly recognized the new country. George, in fact, said “Aha! Vladimir, I just captured your pawn. Now it's your move.”

Putin should be gracious and honor Bush by playing the game of political chess and not be a spoil-sport.

Putin should say, “George I will diplomatically recognize the Indian Nations west of the Mississippi who recently declared independence from the U.S. government and put our troops to guarantee their independence. Now George. I got your pawn.”

Not to be outdone, Bush says “Vlad, I secretly contracted an agreement with the new leaders I purchased in the Ukraine before they became elected. I will honor their request to join NATO. We will put NATO missile bases right at your doorstep.”

“Well, George, we are about to recognize the Independence of the Indian Nations west of the Mississippi, the ones who have declared their independence, as they had every right to do under International Law. Then we intend to go ahead and put missile bases right at your doorstep.

“If you want to recognize some other of our own ethnic groups as nations, we are of mind to counter your efforts and recognize the group from whom you took all of the lands from Mexico, which your Mexican Americans call Mazatland, (California, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico) if they so desire. After all, there are more people speaking Mexican Spanish than English in California and as you say majority rules.”

“OK, Vlad, you win. I do not like this game anymore. Besides my people are restive. They feel our country is going broke. I need to think of something else to spend our money.”

“Sounds good, George. Withdraw your recognition of Kosovo, we refrain from recognizing territories you conquered. George, I was also getting tired and worn out from that last game. And my people are also getting restive.

“We need to take better care of our own people.”

Peter Kotzer

Auburn