What does a conflict between “western” minded Georgia and Russia, troop build up in the Caribbean, and a second aircraft carrier in the Gulf all have in common? Let’s look at the pieces.
In Latin America:
The U.S. Navy has been planning to build up its forces in the region. AdmiralJames Stavridis, who oversees military affairs for Latin America, told Congress on March 6 that he backs plans to designate a new fleet, led by a nuclear aircraft carrier, to patrol the waters of the Caribbean and Latin America in support of counter-terrorism operations.
The move comes as South American nations, including Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil and Ecuador, boost military spending to counter tensions and protect oil reserves.
Rear Admiral James Stevenson, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, said the re-establishment of the Fourth Fleet will send a message to the entire region, not just Venezuela. The focus will probably be on security, he said.
Emphasis is mine.
In Georgia and Russia:
With support from President Bush for Georgia and the Ukraine’s bid for NATO inclusion, is perhaps Russia is feeling the heat? Does the possibility of NATO troops and possible pro-western influence so close to the motherland put pressure on Putin’s defenses? This along with last year’s missile defense system proposal in Putin’s back yard, doesn’t seem as friendly as Bush believes. From a WaPo article:
The president said in the Thursday interviews that part of the reason for his trip was “to allay people’s fears” about the system. “He thinks it’s aimed at him. It’s not,” Bush said of Putin.
Instead, he said, the system is meant to protect NATO allies against hostile regimes. “Russia is not hostile. Russia is a friend.”
Then of course is the latest second carrier in the gulf that is being used as “a reminder to Iran”.
So what does putting pressure on Venezuela and Latin America, Russia, and Iran all have in common? Or should the question be what country poses threats to all of these countries and why are these threats being made?
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3 Comments
May 2, 2008 at 8:30 am
Great post Bluedahlia! I guess it is time for the “lackeys” of the Big Oil to start the war drums to make sure nobody takes their profits. Iraq was the example to all of the Oil producing countries that if you don’t do what we say we are going to reduce your country to rubble. We are just going to use any excuse and make up threats to “Security” in order to invade and destroy.
May 2, 2008 at 8:46 am
Excellent post, Blue. I had no idea about any troops build up in the Caribbean. Thanks!
May 2, 2008 at 8:56 am
Great post Blue, Thank’s…..Blessings