"A pivotal factor of the current election campaign was anti-terrorist struggle. A long term impact of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack determined the results of voting," said the Russian expert.
In his words, as a result of the American occupation, Iraq has turned into a sort of "terrorist center" and "the Iraqi problem plays a significant role and can be compared to the problem of Vietnam".
Rogov said that two factors brought victory to Bush -- consolidation of society in a situation of combat operations in Iraq and general growth of the US economy.
At the same time, the political scientist stressed that if the hostilities in Iraq go on, sentiments in society might change drastically.
Rogov denied the supposition that the Bush Administration sets the aim to draw Russia into hostilities in Iraq.
"I don't believe that Washington would like to draw Russia into the war in Iraq. It is doubtful from the political and economic points of view. In addition, Russia has no intention to send its troops there," he added.
"The United States does not want Russia to interfere with the American policy in Iraq, but it would like to shift some of the Iraq-related problems onto the shoulders of the international organizations, such as the UN," the expert believes.
Commenting on the further developments in the US foreign policy, he noted that any forecasts could be made no sooner than December - January, when new appointments are made in the US Administration. At the same time, Rogov called the system of elections and appointments at the government posts in the USA as "archaic."
"This system discredits America in the eyes of the international community. However I doubt that the relevant reform will be made, for it will require amendments to the constitution," the Russian political expert concluded.
