![Failed Diplomacy: NATO Hardliners Push for Firmer Stance against Russia Failed Diplomacy: NATO Hardliners Push for Firmer Stance against Russia](https://mtic.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PutinMerkel-310x168.jpg)
After months of failed telephone diplomacy between Angela Merkel and Vladimir Putin, hardliners are gaining the upper hand in discussions over the appropriate response to Russia. They may soon prevail with demands that go far beyond new economic sanctions.