I will continue this discussion of your Post #1364 next year as all will be discussing just how strong and sophisticated the current US administration is.
Look forward to it..
But you might want to tone down the interpretation regarding "strong and sophistication".. What I'm saying is that Bush's regime is not the bunch of bumbling polly-annas which seemed to constitute the previous administration. But that doesn't mean they won't make mistakes, or miscalculate. To err is human, to ignore realpolitik, foolish delusion.
For one, they understand that appeasement only makes your adversary more cocky, leaving a bigger problem to be dealt with down the line. (N. Korea). Many of the fearmongers thought that Bush's hardline approach would ignite a war on the peninsula. But others, like myself, understood that the last thing China wanted was such a war, and that Bush's requirement for multi-lateral talks would eventually cause Bejing to step in and fulfill its obligation as N. Korea's patron.
Secondly, they seem to know how to "draw a line in the sand" and stand for something. And while the UN may not like how it happened, we've seen some element of change in how they are doing their job. Iran, for instance, is being accused of violations similar to what was alleged against Iraq. And the IAEA, Europe, and UN are showing some spine in regard to that threat.
Thirdly, I believe they understand the long-term struggle we're involved in related to militant Islam. However, I believe they are being politically pragmatic about trying to nip it in the bud using limited war and political leverage, rather than opting for total mobilization aimed at engaging in a larger war against those who advance the belief.
Lastly, they know that US vital interests cannot be compromised merely to satisfy the corrupt and cynical economic interests of a few of our allies.
Let the chips fall where they may...
Hawk |
