The recent report of the Administrations letter to Putin, regarding allegations that the Russians have violated the 1987 IRNF Treaty, is a bit peevish. The effort amounts to nothing more than a “cover” for what, at the moment, may not be entirely clear. It could be to create the appearance of response (if only as a component of one that is anticipated) or it could be a move urged by the Department of State as a skid for placing U.S. resources in advanced theater positions, perhaps even a walking-forward of the U.S. Missile Defense System.
Whatever the reason the point intended is that Treaty violations are a persistent and frequent occurrence that with equal frequency go unanswered whether it be the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, biological agent development and various unilateral arms dealings with so-called “Rogue” nations. Russia is just one of a handful of participating Nations who’ve made it a habit to ignore these binding protocols.
Let’s not forget that it was the Treaty of Versailles (post WWI) that Nazi Germany claimed was their kinetic force. Isn’t it a bit ironic that while the U.S. Government is unwilling to comply with its own internal legal structure and do so with impunity, the very same organism is asserting a salacious position that defies its own exhibition of lawlessness.
Having suspended the moral high ground, the most conspicuous attribute of true leadership, the Administrations letter to Putin is being viewed, universally, as laughable. The ever transient “red line” has become the epitaph on the gravestone of conviction. Quickly, very quickly, the process is racing past rational options and by allowing this to happen the Administration is drawing the risk closer to home.
Curtis C. Greco, Founder
