Gary Schmitt 's the Soviet Union is by no means the threat Moscow was during Cold War . But the fact that the Russian leader has made it clear that he does not accept the advance of democratic regimes onto Russia 's doorstep -- whether they be tied either to the European Union or NATO -- is bound to mean that this latest incident will have echoes of times past for many Swedes . But Moscow has increasingly been willing to flex muscles with neighbors , says Vladimir Putin . Sweden has expanded operational ties with Russia , Schmitt says .
Gary Schmitt 's the Soviet Union is by no means the threat Moscow was during Cold War . But Moscow has increasingly been willing to flex muscles with neighbors , says Vladimir Putin . Sweden has expanded operational ties with Russia , Schmitt says .