hi clo,
fortunately, the us didn't reach the depths of germany!
but you are right that it takes time to recover. it is unfortunate that bush gave putin an argument that it is hard for anyone to challenge.
even so, letting putin think the us is weak is not something i enjoy one bit. so far, i am unimpressed by o's response. if i am ukraine, i get back in the nuclear business because the guarantees were worthless. and ukraine and nuclear don't mix well!!
personally, i want an america with its moral authority recovered but a lot less of the self-proclaimed exceptionalism. moral standing and humility make excellent bedfellows.
but maybe it is too late as china inexorably moves centre stage.
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