William Helms: “I strongly support Senator Bumpers' amendment because it is reasonable to link further United States funding for…”

“I strongly support Senator Bumpers' amendment because it is reasonable to link further United States funding for technical cooperation with the Russians on the space station with Russia's arrogant sale of nuclear reactors to Iran. The Bumpers amendment makes the choice for the Russian Government quite simple. On the one hand, the Russians can continue to develop economic relations with the United States and move onward into the 21st century on the cutting edge of space-based technology. Or the Russians can pursue a dangerous nuclear relationship with Iran, one of the world's most reprehensible governments. But Russia cannot have it both ways. The two greatest threats facing the security of the United States and its allies are Islamic fundamentalism and nuclear proliferation. The proposed Russian sale of nuclear reactors to Iran is an intersection of these threats. Even the Russians must realize the danger this poses to their own nation. I am truly surprised that no reasonable figure of authority in Russia is willing to confront that obvious reality.”