Meaning: The quote you provided is from Stephen Cohen, an American scholar and professor emeritus of Russian studies at Princeton University and New York University. In this quote, Cohen is commenting on the coverage of Ukraine's presidential election on November 21 and the portrayal of the events by the American press establishment.

Thirteen years after the end of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself at a crossroads. The country was facing a pivotal moment in its history as it sought to solidify its independence and establish a democratic system of governance. The presidential election on November 21, a critical milestone in Ukraine's post-Soviet era, was marred by allegations of fraud and irregularities, leading to widespread protests and international scrutiny.

Cohen's observation about the American press establishment's portrayal of the events in Ukraine reflects his concern about the potential for the situation to escalate into a new cold war with Russia. The reference to the cold war invokes the historical tensions and power struggles between the United States and the Soviet Union, which had a significant impact on global politics and security for much of the 20th century.

Cohen's use of the term "eager" suggests a sense of urgency or willingness on the part of the American press establishment to frame the events in Ukraine in a way that could exacerbate tensions between the West and Russia. This portrayal could have serious implications for international relations, regional stability, and the prospects for democratic development in Ukraine.

The timing of the events in Ukraine, occurring just over a decade after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, underscores the complex legacy of the Cold War and its enduring influence on geopolitical dynamics in the region. The collapse of the Soviet Union had ushered in a period of profound transformation and realignment, with former Soviet republics like Ukraine seeking to redefine their national identities and relationships with neighboring states.

Cohen's perspective as a prominent scholar of Russian studies and international relations lends weight to his assessment of the situation. His expertise in the historical context of the region and his understanding of the dynamics between major global powers inform his commentary on the potential ramifications of the media's framing of the Ukrainian presidential election.

It is important to consider the broader geopolitical implications of how events are portrayed in the media, particularly when they involve countries with complex historical, cultural, and strategic ties. The framing of the Ukrainian election in the context of a new cold war with Russia could shape public perceptions, influence policy decisions, and impact diplomatic relations between the involved parties.

In conclusion, Stephen Cohen's quote highlights the significance of media framing and its potential impact on international relations, particularly in the context of critical events such as Ukraine's presidential election. His concerns about the portrayal of the situation in Ukraine reflect broader issues related to historical legacies, geopolitical tensions, and the complexities of navigating international politics in a post-Cold War era.