Following Russia’s invasion of Georgia, Russia hinted that the West should consider a muted response in light of the fact that “we need Russia to deal with Iran.” This may be a good way to rationalize European unwillingness to come up with a dignified response to Russia’s imperialism–see Timothy Garton Ash in last week’s Guardian for a flight from liberal interventionism–and a call to seek a new détente.

But does this make sense? Russia was never fully on board when it came to Iran–before and after Georgia. Confirmation of the fact that those who wait for Russia on the Iranian dossier will wait forever–if any confirmation was further needed–came yesterday, when Russian sources announced that Russia may increase nuclear assistance to Iran–including training scientists.

We were never fans of Russia, nor did we particularly value the Russian “contribution”on Iran, given that they have been more of a hindrance than a support in the great chess game played ad nauseam in the UN Security Council. Maybe it’s time to stop playing nice in the hope the Russians will be nice as well. The West can take steps against Iran that will hurt Tehran and its prospects for nuclear progress regardless of whether Russia is on board. It is time to ponder such measures and signal the Russians that though a Permanent Member of the Security Council, their contribution to keeping the peace in the world is wanting.