[Kenton]

And, remember just how gratefully the Somalians repaid us for trying to intervene in their problems. Have you ever heard of "Blackhawk Down"? I'm not attacking you, I'm just saying that Americans can't do everything, and we are inevitably resented when we try.

Well, I can't argue against that point. However, every now and then I think it's a good idea if America does something just because it's the right thing to do. Besides, stability in the African subcontinent is very much in our national interest. If what you are saying is "we shouldn't bite off more than we can chew", I would agree. However, I just think the Mugabe regime is quite "chewable", and, with some support to bolster the opposition, he's as ready to fall as an apple in October.

[xJones]

What an excellant argument. I just hope you are willing to send some of your relatives to "do the right thing" in a country we have little to nothing to do with. If their leadership decides to go crazy, the people don't stop it, and it won't cause another world war, it's their tragedy. And I do grieve for all the innocents, but they've got to get desperate and save themselves.

[Publius6961]

Besides, stability in the African subcontinent is very much in our national interest.

Another AWFOF.

We either have monumental divergence in the definition of "national interest", or you are pulling banalities out of yout butt.

Would you care to elaborate with historical or even academic (i.e. useless) justification for that statement?