Geographically, Russia is approx. 2X that of the United States; this is a strong, though mostly subconscious, psychological factor affecting their relationship with the United States and its political, economic and military expansion.
Our missiles can reach them from the United States, so their objections to defensive missile bases in other countries are somewhat of a red herring.

Psychologically, we are in their (also rather large) back yard. In fact, we are partnering economically, politically and militarily with former Soviet states, many of whom the Russians brutally suppressed in years past. Large portions of populations in some of those countries are afraid of a revived Russia.

UNEQUIVICOBLY, Putin states that they will not stand for a “unipolar” world.
What this means is that they will not continue to allow a world in which the American projection of power and influence goes unchallenged; particularly when it’s into what they believe should be their sphere of influence.

Putin should be taken at his word.
If anyone doubts his resolve, one only needs to look at how he has handled the Moscow theatre suicide bombers (http://observer.guardian.co.uk/international/story/0,6903,820265,00.html) and Beslan school situations (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A58381-2004Sep3.html).
Look at his actions in militarily and diplomatically supporting those who stand against us (Iran, Syria and Venezuela, to name just a few).
Also, look at his (strategic) actions regarding oil transport and geo-strategic military and political alliances in opposition to us.
Look at how he is handling political and media opposition.

He is ruthless~ truly KGB.

On top of this, most Russians support him because he has returned a pride to their nation that was lost after the fall of the Soviet Empire.

So, what should we do?

** Push back. Unilaterally (but publicly give notice) of an expansion in our airspace and then shoot down a plane that crosses it to let them know we’re serious.
** Drill scenarios for sneak attacks and invasions.
** Build bomb shelters to show that we are planning to survive a nuclear war.
** Let him AND ALL RUSSIANS know that war will consume the world.

THEN, try to build bridges between the Russians and ourselves.

No one wants war~ to prevent it, a revived Russia needs to know that that the United States is willing and able to wage it; to know that we are serious.

DRS