Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President Obama on Independence Day and called for the ties between both countries to continue to develop on a “pragmatic and equal basis.” Seems to me Putin stuck his finger in America’s eye by granting NSA leaker Edward Snowden temporary asylum and thumbing his nose when he invaded the Crimean region.

In his message of congratulations, Mr Putin said that he hopes that ties between the two countries, which have a rich history, will continue successful development on a pragmatic and equal basis despite the current differences and difficulties.

The President also stressed that Russia and the United States are both countries bearing particular responsibility for ensuring international stability and security and should therefore cooperate not just for the benefit of their own peoples but also in the entire world’s interest.

Mr Putin said it is important to build bilateral relations based on mutual respect and genuine consideration of each other’s interests.

Right wing site, Truth Revolt says Putin is putting the onus on Obama for improving the strained relationship. But it’s more like Putin wants to work with Obama on some level because the sanctions the president imposed over the Crimean invasion is actually working.

This was cross-posted from The Hinterland Gazette.