US Rep Senator Blocks Ambassador to Russia Designee

US presidential designee for ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul. Photo by HumanRightsFirst.org

US Illinois Republican Senator Mark Kirk has voiced broad opposition, blocking President Barack Obama's nominee for the next US ambassador to Moscow, Prof. Michael McFaul.

During discussions of the candidacy, senator Kirk has voiced concerns that if sent to Russia, McFaul might provide Moscow with sensitive information on the American missile defense shield.

Although Obama's administration has denied that it has any such intentions, Kirk has voiced further objections to the overall "reset" approach to relations with Russia.

The dispute with Kirk further complicates the Obama administration’s efforts to get US -Russian relations back on track at a time of increased tensions over missile defense, writes the Boston Globe.

The current American ambassador to Russia is John Beyrle, who 2005-8 served as an ambassador to Bulgaria. Beyrle has also immensely contributed to "resetting" relations between the States and Russia.

Michael McFaul is professor of political science at Stanford University. He is also a staunch adherent of boosting relations with Russia, in particular of stimulating democracy in the country.

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