Sessions to face sharp questions on russia contacts #comments

It seems like you're looking for some potential questions that could be asked during a session to discuss Russia contacts, with a focus on sharp and critical thinking. Here are some possible questions that could be explored:

Background and Context

  1. What is your understanding of the current state of US-Russia relations, and how do you think they have evolved over time?
  2. Can you describe any personal or professional experiences you've had with Russia or Russians that may have influenced your views on the country?
  3. How do you think the media and public perception of Russia have changed over the past few years, and what factors do you think have contributed to these changes?

Russia's Political and Economic Influence

  1. How do you assess the impact of Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election, and what measures do you think should be taken to prevent similar interference in the future?
  2. Can you discuss the role of Russian oligarchs and their connections to the Russian government, and how these relationships may influence global politics and economies?
  3. How do you think the US should respond to Russia's aggressive behavior in Ukraine and other regions, and what diplomatic or economic measures do you think would be most effective?

Personal and Professional Connections

  1. Have you ever had any personal or professional interactions with Russian officials, business leaders, or other influential individuals? If so, can you describe these interactions and how they may have influenced your views on Russia?
  2. How do you think the US government should handle situations where American citizens or organizations have connections to Russia, particularly if these connections may be seen as compromising national security or interests?
  3. Can you discuss any instances where you think the US government or other organizations may have been too soft or too hard on Russia, and what you think would be a more effective approach?

Ethics and Morality

  1. How do you think the US should balance its national security interests with its values and principles, particularly when it comes to dealing with a country like Russia that has a history of human rights abuses and authoritarian behavior?
  2. Can you discuss any instances where you think the US government or other organizations may have compromised their values or principles in order to achieve a strategic goal or maintain a relationship with Russia?
  3. How do you think the US should respond to instances of Russian aggression or human rights abuses, and what moral obligations do you think the US has to speak out against such behavior?

Future Directions

  1. What do you think are the most pressing issues facing US-Russia relations, and how do you think they should be addressed?
  2. Can you discuss any potential areas of cooperation between the US and Russia, such as counter-terrorism or non-proliferation efforts, and how these collaborations could be structured to ensure mutual benefit and trust?
  3. How do you think the US should prepare for a potential future where Russia becomes a more dominant global player, and what strategies do you think would be most effective in maintaining US interests and values in such a scenario?

These questions are meant to be thought-provoking and challenging, and are designed to encourage critical thinking and nuanced discussion about Russia contacts and US-Russia relations.