When asked to rank various countries on a scale with 10 being the most influential, both Russians and Americans rated the US above 8—Americans (8.77) and Russians (8.74). Respondents to the World Public Opinion.org and Levada Center poll did not rate any other nation near 8. Russians gave the next highest influence ranking (7.14) to the European Union.
The Air Force displayed all the firepower it has amassed on Okinawa in an unusually diverse show of force this week. IIn a May 6 “Elephant Walk,” Kadena Air Base showcased 24 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters, eight F-15E Strike Eagles; two U.S. Army Patriot anti-missile batteries near the runway; and…