The American Spectator

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Another Perspective

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Although Nigeria sent troops, that wasn't viewed as enough. A refugee exclaimed: "we like the Nigerians -- but we want some few Americans or British, to help them out and ensure the stability of the country."

One can understand why Liberians wanted U.S. aid. But American troops are not pawns to be moved about the globe in someone else's international chess game.

This point befuddles even some of Washington's closest allies. After his election South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun complained that "So far, all changes in the size of U.S. troop strength here have been determined by the United States based on its strategic consideration, without South Korea's consent."

But upon what does he believe America's deployments should be based? South Korea's strategic consideration?

Bringing stability and democracy to Iraq is no mean task. And the U.S. cannot stay if it is not wanted. But an Iraqi desire that American forces remain is no cause to keep them there. Only the protection of American interests warrants the sacrifice of American lives.

topics:
Military, Iraq, Russia, Africa