Quote Originally Posted by Furunculus View Post
Is that what the EU member states want? Because i know the UK doesn't, i doubt many of the new states do either.
a) Yes, it is the first duty of the nation state. Why is that odd?
b) Because not that many nations are willing to divest themselves of military sovereignty
c) America wants no such thing, America wants an independent military europe and cries when it sees chronic underspending and vanity projects.
a) I'm confused, you're saying its a waste of money, then you say countries ought to have high spending in defence. Since Galileo is primarily due to military independence, I'd say the EU is doing exactly what you propose. And you're arguing against having spending money on something which will make the EU countries better without needing the assistence of the USA.
That is a Pro-Militaristic point of view. But then, I'm sure Kim-Il Jung would agree with your views. I'd much, much rather have a low budget for defence and a high budget towards economic and social development. Having high spendings in defence at a time of crisis is foolish and ridiculous.
b) NATO takes part of the military sovereignty of its members. I don't see an International outcry about it.
c) HAHAHA. America cries when it sees chronic underspending? You should read up on what Realpolitik or International Realism is. For a proponent of high budget spending in contrast with economical social welfare, you sure have a liberal view of the International Relations that the USA executes, which is not quite up to par with the truth, and you're hearing this from a person who knows of what he is speaking.