The result of tentative action...
RF concerned over abused mandate of UN resolution on Libya
Yes, I know that the chirping of the Russians from the back row of the bleachers (like that US strikes were killing civilians) were diplomatic amateur-hour at its worst but... given the recent statement (by Obama, Sarcozy and Cameron) that Gaddafi must go opens the door for the Russians to make this more accurate accusation.
So what is the sad part? That once the UNSC authority to act was granted instead of getting in fast and hitting hard and then getting out the world saw burn-out after 48 hours followed by a hopelessly inept performance ever since. If anyone doubts what I say go and ask the people of Misrata.
To make matters worse given the fear of many US citizens of being sucked into another Iraq/Afghanistan swamp anyone with even basic intelligence would have gone for the short-sharp option.
I doubt you do and if you should become so, reorient yourself rapidly.
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Originally Posted by
JMA
Thanks for that Ken, it certainly makes my comment look alarmist and badly incorrect. I wonder how I was led to that impression.
Possibly reading too many left wing publications or web sites? Or just paying attention to the US media who rarely get much right... :D
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I will use this reference on the next "drama queen" who dares to suggest that the US can't afford the Libyan intervention.
You could do that but you'd be wrong to do so. Libya, like everything, does cost and we are strapped -- almost bankrupt, I believe you wrote :wry: -- so no added costs where we really have no interests would be helpful. As you sort of imply though, the cost factor is more related to 'I don't want to spend my money on that' than it is to total inability to afford it. The cost is cited in the effort of getting Europe to step up and take care of things that are in their interest without involving the US. ;)
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I consider myself duly "put straight" on the matter.
Heh. LINK.