The Axis of Weasel

Page 2 - Seeking answers? Join the AnandTech community: where nearly half-a-million members share solutions and discuss the latest tech.

Alistar7

Lifer
May 13, 2002
11,978
0
0
You won't find me defending Israel or the US's past actions in not calling them to the mat. Recent condenmations have come regarding settlement practices, our pressure was the cause of Israel agreeing to give back the settlements. Long overdue in my book, read my thread about the 3 yr plan.
 

jjones

Lifer
Oct 9, 2001
15,424
2
0
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.
 

43st

Diamond Member
Nov 7, 2001
3,197
0
0
Originally posted by: jjones
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.

Exactly! Something all sides can agree on, finally. I fully support the mobilization of a central EU militar, hopefully with a budget that mirrors or even rivals the American Miltary budget. About fricken time, get them off our payroll.
 

jjones

Lifer
Oct 9, 2001
15,424
2
0
Originally posted by: Thera
Originally posted by: jjones
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.

Exactly! Something all sides can agree on, finally. I fully support the mobilization of a central EU militar, hopefully with a budget that mirrors or even rivals the American Miltary budget. About fricken time, get them off our payroll.
The Cold War is long over; there is a new world order, much of which is dictated by American policy. The EU, often perceived as an economic union, must consolidate their power behind a mutual defense strategy. No powerful economic union has ever in history been a lasting influence without military might behind it to protect its interests. The problems with this is some of the EU partners are not willing to cut their ties to American military strengths; most notably the Brits who share language and are across the channel from mainland Europe, and the Eastern Europeans who are anxious to feel secure under the umbrella of American influence.

Actually, I think the EU will eventually either break down or go through a sort of "civil war" of their own at some point in the near future; we've already seen some indicators pointing towards this. Behind this will be the need for security which will be found either mutually or outside the EU's sphere of influence. As appealing as the economic union is, at least a few will find that an alliance outside of "Old Europe" may be more beneficial and this will cause tremendous strain and force allegiances, as is already apparent. France will always strive to be top dog in the EU and many will not find themselves aligned with her policies.

In any case, we do not need redundant defense strategy in Europe and it's best to get the EU on the road to taking care of itself, however that happens to shape itself in the coming years.

Whatever happens, I still think it is a natural development. The EU must project its own strengths not just economically but militarily as well.

 

rawoutput

Banned
Jan 23, 2002
429
0
0
Originally posted by: Vadatajs
Originally posted by: sMiLeYz
I wonder if Bush can even pronounce diplomacy...

I'll bet he thinks it's a kind of dinosaur.

Good thing at the end of the day he knows he's part of one of the few countries that has any real relevancy in the world.
 

Moonbeam

Elite Member
Nov 24, 1999
74,770
6,770
126
Yup, it must really suck to be born someplace irrelevant like in a context that casts the illusion countries have some intrinsic relevance. There is no unimportance more important than self importance.

There was some joker born in a mud hut in India who developed the full scope of western mathematics completely on his own.
 

BarneyFife

Diamond Member
Aug 12, 2001
3,875
0
76
Originally posted by: jjones
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.

Europe is gaining strength by the year with the European Union and the Euro dollar which is worth more then our dollar. But it is real foolish to say "let them fend for themselves" as you should never say that to your friends because you might need them one day. Europe is our ally and don't listen to those right wing wackos who want to isolate the US. If we isolate ourselves, we'll turn into China.
 

CADsortaGUY

Lifer
Oct 19, 2001
25,162
1
76
www.ShawCAD.com
Originally posted by: BarneyFife
Originally posted by: jjones
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.

Europe is gaining strength by the year with the European Union and the Euro dollar which is worth more then our dollar. But it is real foolish to say "let them fend for themselves" as you should never say that to your friends because you might need them one day. Europe is our ally and don't listen to those right wing wackos who want to isolate the US. If we isolate ourselves, we'll turn into China.

There are isolationist on both sides...oh take this war in Iraq for example ;) I heard alot of "it isn't any of our business..." from the left.

CkG
 

jjones

Lifer
Oct 9, 2001
15,424
2
0
Originally posted by: BarneyFife
Originally posted by: jjones
In my opinion, they should break up NATO and let Europe fend for itself; they should have done it about five or so years ago. Europe has been struggling to define itself in the shadow of the world's only remaining superpower and it's more than obvious the French and new German leadership are striving to counterbalance the policies of the US, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I say it's well past time to get them off the teet of the American taxpayer.

Europe is gaining strength by the year with the European Union and the Euro dollar which is worth more then our dollar. But it is real foolish to say "let them fend for themselves" as you should never say that to your friends because you might need them one day. Europe is our ally and don't listen to those right wing wackos who want to isolate the US. If we isolate ourselves, we'll turn into China.
I don't mean fend for themselves in that we would not take up cause with them, I meant fend for themselves in that they should foot the bill for their defense and plan for a military structure within the makeup of the EU. NATO has lived out its day and the world is a bit different than it was during the Cold War.

 

ConclamoLudus

Senior member
Jan 16, 2003
572
0
0
I don't think its such a bad idea. Its difficult to trust these leaders, but I think they are relatively harmless. If it makes them feel better to get together...fine
 

LunarRay

Diamond Member
Mar 2, 2003
9,993
1
76
We are in the waning hours of the greatest military victory since World War Two. The US Divisions moved more men and armament further in a shorter period of time than had ever before been achieved. We can once again stand tall in the aftermath of such a feat. We have avenged the terrorist attacks on our homeland, removed the evil dictators of two oppressive regimes and freed the slaves of tyranny from their bondage... My fellow Americans we are embarked on a noble voyage... a manifest destiny of the twenty first century. We are empowered by the almighty to insure the domsetic tranquility of all nations is as our own.... AND WE SHALL NOT REST TILL THIS MISSION IS COMPLETE AND FREEDOM IS NOT ONLY IN THE HEARTS BUT IN THE HOMELAND OF EVERY NATION.
When I see the broken bodies of the children waving as our tanks pass by or the worker clearing munitions from his farm, tears run down my face because I know how happy they are and proud that it was us who provided this sense of jubilation. I can report to you today that water will soon be returning to many of the cities and power will be restored as well in time. In a few hours a new flight of humanitarian foods stuffs will take off from Andrews to replace the aid that was destroyed by the parachute failures over the city of TiKrit.. The unfortunate deaths that resulted there weigh heavy on my heart and on the hearts of every American... We are a loving people and would no more wish for the death of the Suni leader ship than any other... We will notify, as soon as we can uncover the town from the twenty or so feet of food cartons, the next of kin of the dead.
I can report to you that all the oil production facilities are up and running with crude being loaded in US flag vessels as I speak. Soon the spoils of war will power our cars and trucks our planes, trains and busses... never again will we wait in line for gas.. or be dependent upon the will of Allah.
I have ordered the Third, Fourth Divisios and First Expeditionary Force to position their assets along the border of Jordan and Syria as a precaution against possible infiltration of terriorist agents. These divisions, the best the world has ever seen, have orders not to enter foreign territory with out just cause.. or target of opportunity. We are currently talking with the Syrian President in Damascus with the hope war can be avoided.
Ah... I seem to have lost my place... ah... Leeza what comes after Damascus?.. Ok... lets start at the top again..
 

Mookow

Lifer
Apr 24, 2001
10,162
0
0
With the inclusion of countries like Luxembourg, they are well on their way towards becoming a significant military power
 

AnImuS

Senior member
Sep 28, 2001
939
0
0
Originally posted by: cpumaster
Hay what happened to BUSH proposal of National Missiles defense system aka Star Wars? The admin seemed pretty quiet now days, are military still working on it? Maybe it's a good time to bring this program back up now, oh wait, we can't, the money already spend on the tax cut, maybe Bush will have to raise the tax in the future if he ever want to go back to the program.
Anyway, I can imagine now, Cold War 2 in the future although instead of Democracy vs Communist, now we have Democracy vs Democracy, EU vs US
US, Britain, Canada, maybe Mexico vs France, German, Belgium, (Luxemberg probab. doesn't count), maybe Russian.
Wow that would be awesome, can you imagine what the neo-con reaction would be when they dream up of this scenario in their head? Probably wet their pants with multiple-orgasm... :)


i wouldn't be surprised if they have continued the project or even possibly testing in space.
One way or another with or without citizens approval aslong as it works and has funding the project will stay up unless something better comes along...
 

charrison

Lifer
Oct 13, 1999
17,033
1
81
Originally posted by: AnImuS
Originally posted by: cpumaster
Hay what happened to BUSH proposal of National Missiles defense system aka Star Wars? The admin seemed pretty quiet now days, are military still working on it? Maybe it's a good time to bring this program back up now, oh wait, we can't, the money already spend on the tax cut, maybe Bush will have to raise the tax in the future if he ever want to go back to the program.
Anyway, I can imagine now, Cold War 2 in the future although instead of Democracy vs Communist, now we have Democracy vs Democracy, EU vs US
US, Britain, Canada, maybe Mexico vs France, German, Belgium, (Luxemberg probab. doesn't count), maybe Russian.
Wow that would be awesome, can you imagine what the neo-con reaction would be when they dream up of this scenario in their head? Probably wet their pants with multiple-orgasm... :)


i wouldn't be surprised if they have continued the project or even possibly testing in space.
One way or another with or without citizens approval aslong as it works and has funding the project will stay up unless something better comes along...


This project is funded this year, just like it has been funded every year since Reagan proposed it.
 

Moonbeam

Elite Member
Nov 24, 1999
74,770
6,770
126
We are in the waning hours of the greatest military victory since World War Two. The US Divisions moved more men and armament further in a shorter period of time than had ever before been achieved. We can once again stand tall in the aftermath of such a feat. We have avenged the terrorist attacks on our homeland, removed the evil dictators of two oppressive regimes and freed the slaves of tyranny from their bondage... My fellow Americans we are embarked on a noble voyage... a manifest destiny of the twenty first century. We are empowered by the almighty to insure the domsetic tranquility of all nations is as our own.... AND WE SHALL NOT REST TILL THIS MISSION IS COMPLETE AND FREEDOM IS NOT ONLY IN THE HEARTS BUT IN THE HOMELAND OF EVERY NATION.
When I see the broken bodies of the children waving as our tanks pass by or the worker clearing munitions from his farm, tears run down my face because I know how happy they are and proud that it was us who provided this sense of jubilation. I can report to you today that water will soon be returning to many of the cities and power will be restored as well in time. In a few hours a new flight of humanitarian foods stuffs will take off from Andrews to replace the aid that was destroyed by the parachute failures over the city of TiKrit.. The unfortunate deaths that resulted there weigh heavy on my heart and on the hearts of every American... We are a loving people and would no more wish for the death of the Suni leader ship than any other... We will notify, as soon as we can uncover the town from the twenty or so feet of food cartons, the next of kin of the dead.
I can report to you that all the oil production facilities are up and running with crude being loaded in US flag vessels as I speak. Soon the spoils of war will power our cars and trucks our planes, trains and busses... never again will we wait in line for gas.. or be dependent upon the will of Allah.
I have ordered the Third, Fourth Divisios and First Expeditionary Force to position their assets along the border of Jordan and Syria as a precaution against possible infiltration of terriorist agents. These divisions, the best the world has ever seen, have orders not to enter foreign territory with out just cause.. or target of opportunity. We are currently talking with the Syrian President in Damascus with the hope war can be avoided.
Ah... I seem to have lost my place... ah... Leeza what comes after Damascus?.. Ok... lets start at the top again..
-----------------------

AHAHAHAHAHA Damn that was really good. In the wrong hands you could be really dangerous. :D
 

Martin

Lifer
Jan 15, 2000
29,178
1
81
Originally posted by: charrison
Originally posted by: LilBlinbBlahIce
I agree, it should be interesting times ahead though, there has been a lot of talk, now to see if there will be any action. We didn't get to where we are (militarily) over night, so if this happens, its going to take a good amount of time.

France also has to design a carrier that can keep its props on and have a flight deck long enough to land planes :p. This will not happen overnight either.

Nope, not anytime soon. I read somewhere that German generals propose a European army be started by 2014. Still a long way off.

Despite your hatred of the French, you gotta hand it to them. Apart from the US, France is the only country possesing a nuclear carrier (IIRC).
 

charrison

Lifer
Oct 13, 1999
17,033
1
81
Originally posted by: MartyTheManiak
Originally posted by: charrison
Originally posted by: LilBlinbBlahIce
I agree, it should be interesting times ahead though, there has been a lot of talk, now to see if there will be any action. We didn't get to where we are (militarily) over night, so if this happens, its going to take a good amount of time.

France also has to design a carrier that can keep its props on and have a flight deck long enough to land planes :p. This will not happen overnight either.

Nope, not anytime soon. I read somewhere that German generals propose a European army be started by 2014. Still a long way off.

Despite your hatred of the French, you gotta hand it to them. Apart from the US, France is the only country possesing a nuclear carrier (IIRC).

I dont hate the France, but the french goverment is not our friend.

Yes the French are the only other country to have a nuclear carrier. It is about 2/3s the size our carriers and has been riddled with engineering problems. We have been using the same carrier class for about 30 years and have had plenty of time to work these flaws out. Even our next gen carrier will be based in old design. Engineering a product with a billion parts is not something that happens overnight.
 

Mookow

Lifer
Apr 24, 2001
10,162
0
0
Originally posted by: MartyTheManiak
Originally posted by: charrison
Originally posted by: LilBlinbBlahIce
I agree, it should be interesting times ahead though, there has been a lot of talk, now to see if there will be any action. We didn't get to where we are (militarily) over night, so if this happens, its going to take a good amount of time.

France also has to design a carrier that can keep its props on and have a flight deck long enough to land planes :p. This will not happen overnight either.

Nope, not anytime soon. I read somewhere that German generals propose a European army be started by 2014. Still a long way off.

Despite your hatred of the French, you gotta hand it to them. Apart from the US, France is the only country possesing a nuclear carrier (IIRC).

True they have a nuclear carrier, but it has no where near the punch of an American carrier. Both in the carrier's abilities, and the planes aboard. Plus, you just dont send a carrier into battle alone, you need a carrier group, and France's abilities in ASW (esp against american subs) and its ability to defend against missiles (unless we sold them the Aegis system + related hardware when I wasnt paying attention, which is possible) are sub par
 

SnapIT

Banned
Jul 8, 2002
4,355
1
0
Thankfully, my little country (Sweden) will never be a part of such a defence union...

And you know what? We're perfectly happy that we're not a threat to anyone and no one is a threat to us... :)

Hell, we even have to import demonstrators from GB and Germany to get a protest march to turn violent...
 

LunarRay

Diamond Member
Mar 2, 2003
9,993
1
76
Originally posted by: SnapIT
Thankfully, my little country (Sweden) will never be a part of such a defence union...

And you know what? We're perfectly happy that we're not a threat to anyone and no one is a threat to us... :)

Hell, we even have to import demonstrators from GB and Germany to get a protest march to turn violent...

I understand all molecular movement stops at 0 kelvin and the last time I was in Sweden.... it got close...;)

I'll bet they don't even riot at football games there...:D
 

SnapIT

Banned
Jul 8, 2002
4,355
1
0
Originally posted by: HJD1
Originally posted by: SnapIT
Thankfully, my little country (Sweden) will never be a part of such a defence union...

And you know what? We're perfectly happy that we're not a threat to anyone and no one is a threat to us... :)

Hell, we even have to import demonstrators from GB and Germany to get a protest march to turn violent...

I understand all molecular movement stops at 0 kelvin and the last time I was in Sweden.... it got close...;)

I'll bet they don't even riot at football games there...:D

Nope, we have to import rioters too... :D

Yup, it's cold most of the time, but that's a good thing, that means i only have to be in shape four months a year... ;)
 

LunarRay

Diamond Member
Mar 2, 2003
9,993
1
76

Nope, we have to import rioters too... :D

Yup, it's cold most of the time, but that's a good thing, that means i only have to be in shape four months a year... ;)[/quote]

You all do something right.... Annika and Lisolotte and a few other women not to mention Edberg, Borge and the tennis connection.... all that with just four months of life a year... I thought Ireland had an excuse... but, not now.