A thank goodness they do: we were headed for an East-West Nuclear war until the Soviet Union Folded and the new alliances (which are still forming) were established.

I agree with you that it can be very confusing.

I think it is interesting that normal left vs. right politics don't apply to foriegn affairs for the most part...Witness the battle lines drawn on this board over the Palestinian/Isrealie issue.

Generally speaking, the American government will pursue a policy which gives the US the most leverage on the world stage. France will do the same as will Britan, Saudia Arabia, etc...

Sometimes the objectives match up, more often than not, the objectives of one nation either conflict or at best may compliment or lead to a Quid Quo Pro type of relationship.

Foreign Affairs are almost always messy. That explains the need by so many to call for isolationism.

Have a great Weekend.

Scott