The US should also take into account this cultural shock in their current military endeavours. Europe can deal with an economical/financial globalization but, as soon as such a globalization becomes (geo)political then it resents being in the back seat...
Well by all means I suggest that Europe get its collective act together and take the lead on Serbia.
This entire issue has become a p*ssing contest between Clinton and Milosevec, and that plays right into the hands of Milosevec propaganda machine, while it undermines Clinton's ability to "sell" this intervention to isolationist Americans who wonder just how the hell we got to this point.
Europe must take the lead, or at least a more active role and reduce US exposure.
I'm tired of hearing "we have to win this thing or US credibility will be undermined throughout the world". Rather EUROPE HAS TO WIN THIS THING, and the US, as a NATO member must be ready to do its part, but not try to dictate how the action is undertaken.
Time for Europe to grow up and deal with its neighbors. Milosevic can win the propaganda war by turning this into a "one on one" between the US and Serbia. However, it is much harder for Milosevic to ignore the European collective since they are his country's neighbors (and you have to get along with your neighbors eventually).
I see this lack of UNIFIED ASSERTIVENESS by Europeans as more of a threat than Serbia. So long as Europe fails to take the lead in solving their internal problems, the US will be forced to risk the lives of our men, the reputation of our nation, and ultimately the military and political credibility that helps to maintain a semblance of stability in this world.
Tell you what guys... I'm fully prepared to support a NATO ground force action so long as it removes the US from being responsible for the political "leadership" of this action. Clinton needs to shut up and let NATO and European leadership take over. That's our entrance, or our exit. The minute this becomes personal battle between two leaders, we walk down the path of all-out war that neither nation really desire. Making it a personal battle of wills between Milosevic and Clinton really undermines the heart of the issue, Europe's own willingness and interest in maintaining stability in their region.
Regards,
Ron |
