Where are the NATO Troops Mr. International Promised Us?

Good question. When does Obama's alleged charm begin translating into tangible benefits for America?

If what the White House and Obama supporters have been saying for two years is true, the weighty decision on Afghanistan's troop strength is one that Obama shouldn't have to make. From airy speeches in Berlin, to campaign rallies boasting that The One would renew "tattered" alliances abroad, to smug lectures about President Bush's disrespectful treatment of our international friends and allies, President Obama was supposed to be the great uniter of the grand Western alliance, NATO's savior.

So far, he's saved nothing. President Obama has failed to turn any of his charm and charisma into meaningful support in Afghanistan. Where's the European surge? Where's the flood of NATO troops, inspired by Obama's lofty rhetoric, gushing into the Helmand? General McChrystal needs 48k more soldiers because he needs to hold territory and protect Afghani villages. Why hasn't he been able to supplant McChrystal's request with a sizable international force? Wasn't that the point of electing a President whose greatest strength was his popularity abroad?

The world probably does like us better. And that translates to.... Jack and Squat.

Everything about Obama is this childish belief in "liking." If Iran's mullahs "like" us more, they will renounce a 20 year national/religious ambition to get an a-bomb.

If Obama's going to conduct middle-school diplomacy, perhaps he should learn what most people do before eighth grade: There is a difference between liking someone and like-liking someone.

posted by Ace at 03:06 PM

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