When the Indonesians are finally made aware the Great (Australian) Artesian Basin also connects to them, and that fracking and associated industries being carried out in OZ will pollute their groundwater. It will be amusing to see the change of tune played by our government. That moment is probably not even 15 years away. The re-drawn boundaries in the Timor Sea, done to the advantage of US/European interests, likewise there, the Indonesians will be watching the ramp up of (US) bases being built and planned for the Top End to protect vested interests.

Joint exercises have been going on for ages in the north west involving Indonesian Kopassus, and other major players regionally. Just like in 1937, when Japanese "geologists", "scientists" and cartographers were noting mineral deposits, topography and cataloguing our lands... so too will we think we did the right thing embracing the zeitgeist, to our detriment in times to come.

The only factor in our advantage currently, is knowing that the Indonesian defence forces have poor maintenance on their materiel - generally speaking, and once their kit needs repair, it will become ineffectual in the battle environment. What they do have, however in their favour, is sheer numbers.

Siberia wanting to break away from Russia ? Who would have thought that the shoe could have been on the other foot ? Well, the Guardian hints at it:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/05/russia-bans-siberia-independence-march-extremism-law

How do you spell 'Schadenfreude' properly ?

Joe

Nyah ! nyah ! Told you so:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/15/russia-fledgling-independence-movements

Maybe, just like a lawyer should never ask a question that he doesn't already know the answer to, a dictator should be dead-sure of success before he launches into any aggressions against neighbouring countries, it can really bounce back on him.

And of all 'countries', Russia is a hotch-potch of nationalities and regions which its rulers have invaded over the past four or five hundred years. And five thousand miles across.

And what's the bet that if Putin cracks down on any marches today or in the near future, he'll turn aspirations for federalism into full-blown demands for independence ?

Wouldn't be dead for quids !

Joe