Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.
Take a look at this recent photo of President Obama and President Putin.
Now compare that with this one:
Now, put all of this in the context of one of our earlier posts from a year ago when the second picture was taken:
Putin wants Russia and China to join forces against the West
And, add to it the fact that Hong Kong authorities under Chinese control let Edward Snowden receive safe passage from China through Russia to Cuba, Venezuela, or Ecuador. Regardless of whether you think Snowden is a traitor or hero, this should be a clear signal to all of us that neither Russia nor China are beholden to Washington. In fact, the disdain is almost palpable. You can see it in the pictures.