Michael Oren : While U.S. focused on mediation in the Middle East , Russia acted in U.S. . He says Crimea has influence with Russia and relations with Iran could upend strategy on nukes . That success could yet turn sour , however , if Russia backs out of the deal . Russia has played its cards well , while U.S. risks being outmaneuvered , he says . Oren : U.S. should reassert itself in Middle East and move to protect its allies .
Michael Oren : While U.S. focused on mediation in the Middle East , Russia acted in U.S. . He says Crimea has influence with Russia and relations with Iran could upend strategy on nukes . Russia has played its cards well , while U.S. risks being outmaneuvered , he says . Oren : U.S. should reassert itself in Middle East and move to protect its allies .