You've got to be kidding me

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This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on December 10, 2003). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.

From the New York Times: Bush Seeks Help of Allies Barred From Iraq Deals

President Bush found himself in the awkward position on Wednesday of calling the leaders of France, Germany and Russia to ask them to forgive Iraq’s debts, just a day after the Pentagon excluded those countries and others from \$18 billion in American-financed Iraqi reconstruction projects.

White House officials were fuming about the timing and the tone of the Pentagon’s directive, even while conceding that they had approved the Pentagon policy of limiting contracts to 63 countries that have given the United States political or military aid in Iraq.

Many countries excluded from the list, including close allies like Canada, reacted angrily on Wednesday to the Pentagon action. They were incensed, in part, by the Pentagon’s explanation in a memorandum that the restrictions were required “for the protection of the essential security interests of the United States.”

How does any of this help anyone?

5 thoughts on “You've got to be kidding me”

  1. Why does it seem that for the past few months, the US government keeps stumbling over political and international blunders. no tact, no timing… tsk.

  2. “How does any of this help anyone?”

    That is an easy one. Bush was guaranteed a second term more than a year ago. With each misstep, the democrats gain potential. Actually, I am more middle of the line, but the republicans keep making it harder and harder for me to vote for them.

  3. Well, it sure as hell helps Mr. Bush and his business interests, or at least his friends business interests, as well as letting him basically say “if you don’t do what I say I’m not going to let you play with my toys :P”

  4. Hahaha… he actually expects those countries to forgive those debts now that they’ve been blocked from any of the rebuilding contracts? Maybe that WOULD have been considered, if there was some other cash coming in to help balance out the debts, but I really doubt it’ll happen now.

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