...is why is it that these "smaller nations" are so "leery" in the first place?

The Bush administration's original motive in seeking this resolution was to secure substantive financial and military support from other nations. Mr. Bush failed in achieving this objective. The result was a face saving compromise that has strengthened the international standing of the U.N., France, Russia and Germany. I view this result as a good thing that will serve our interests in the long run. But not in the same way Mr. Bush intended. It repairs the damage done when Mr. Bush chose to go it alone.