To the Point
As the Olympics Wind Down, Is a New Cold War Heating Up?
The winter Olympics in Sochi are providing the showcase promised by Vladimir Putin. But Ukraine's bloody violence may threaten his hopes for Russia's resurgence.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenThe winter Olympics in Sochi are providing the showcase promised by Vladimir Putin. But Ukraine's bloody violence may threaten his hopes for Russia's resurgence. What's at stake for his relations with the US and Western Europe? Also, does a new law in Arizona promote religious freedom or legalize discrimination?
Banner image: (L) People attend the funeral of an anti-government protester who was killed during Thursday's clashes with riot police, in Kiev February 21, 2014. Photo: Baz Ratner/Reuters.
(R) South Korea's Kim Yuna reacts after her figure skating women's free skating program at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, February 20, 2014. Photo: Lucy Nicholson/Reuters
In this episode
3 storiesWill a Peace Agreement in Ukraine Stick?
Ukraine's embattled President Yanukovych made new concessions today, including early elections. Representatives from the European Union signed on to the deal; Russia's representative did not. But political opposition leaders acknowledged they might not be enough for protesters in Independence Square.
Read the story8 minAs the Olympics Wind Down, Is a New Cold War Heating Up?
The Olympic flame is still burning brightly in Sochi. If all goes well over the weekend, Vladimir Putin will have staged the showcase he promised. But, a few hundred miles away in Ukraine, it's a different story. Despite Putin's support, President Yanukovych may be deposed by bloody violence. The big questions remaining: what will Putin do now?
Read the story34 minArizona's 'Religious Freedom' Bill Incenses Gay Rights' Activists
Last night, the Arizona state legislature passed a measure allowing business owners to refuse service to gays and lesbians — by asserting their religious beliefs. Will Republican Governor Jan Brewer sign it into law? Howard Fischer covers the state legislature for Arizona Public Radio .
Read the story9 min
