Congressman Tom Cole of Oklahoma’s 4th District is among the members of the House Republican leadership. Despite his comparatively young tenure at the U.S. Congress – Dr. Cole was originally elected three years ago, in November 2002 – Representative Cole is already the majority Deputy Whip. Congressman Cole currently serves on the House Rules Committee. He also retains his seniority on the Armed Services Committee, to which he was assigned upon being elected.

- Congressman Cole, how do you generally view the current relationship between Russia and the United States?

- It is incredible how far we have come today. Looking at the present situation, someone twenty years ago would have said that it was impossible. Overall, the relationship is a warm one.

- Considering your position on the House Armed Services Committee, what strategic interest does Russia present for U.S. Military security?

- U.S. and Russia do collaborate now in fighting terrorism, of course. There may be other forms of strategic cooperation. In 2003, I proposed that Russia, along with France and Germany, be included in the Iraqi reconstruction efforts.

- What about Russian-Ameri-can business and economic ties? How developed are they and what are the prospects?

- As I said, U.S.-Russia relations have gone a long way. Certainly, not everything is explored yet. In the future, Russian-American ties will definitely grow. 

- Do you approve of President Bush’s good relationship with Russia’s President Putin? Some politicians in the United States say that this friendship is not entirely constructive...

- I would not be able to tell you what the personal friendship between President Bush and President Putin means. I do not think, however, that it is negative. Bush and Putin work together well and improve the relationship between their two countries.