So instead of faulting the president for the sentiments of local officials, he should be credited for his vocal opposition to radical nationalism: his annual address was an understandable response to external provocation, not a default to a nationalistic foreign policy.

ECONOMIST: On immigration, Russia, communists, the European Commission, Telstra, biofuels, IKEA, tea | The

Baathism was associated with radical Arab nationalism - a key barometer for this was a hardline approach to the Palestinian issue.

BBC: The Iraqi Baath party

As for the Soviet Union's allies in East Europe, where nationalism is resurgent and the desire for radical reform is strong, they will be significantly constrained in attempting any fundamental shifts from the dominant Soviet system.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The New Soviet Challenge