While many questions remain unanswered about the recent sinking of the Russian nuclear submarine Kursk, the disaster has exposed some of the grave problems that afflict Russia today. It attracted much attention worldwide because it caused many people to ponder the life-or-death situation that the Kursk crew presumably faced.
The cold reality is that national security is of primary importance to a state. In dealing with the crisis, Russian military authorities placed greater importance on military secrets and national pride than on the crew's lives, but they should not be criticized for that alone.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken the brunt of criticism at home and abroad for his handling of the crisis, but he is likely to use the disaster as an opportunity to build a stronger nation and boost Russia's military power.