As a result of President Obama’s world apology tour, we’re perhaps beginning to see the results of his smart power.  Not only have our long-time allies, the Israelis, seem to have decided that they need to look out for themselves since we apparently are throwing them under the bus, but progress has been made regarding the prospects of unprecedented unilateral talks with some of the world’s rogue nations. North Korea has invited the Obama administration to join in direct talks on the status of their various military and civilian nuclear programs.  And even though it has come to light that the IAEA willfully hid evidence of a covert Iranian military nuclear program, the administration has indicated it will also soon begin talks with the illegitimate Iranian thugocracy, without preconditions of course.  That is, except for the fig leaf that they “might” be willing to put their military nuclear program on the negotiating table as well; a prospect seen as a hollow gesture that gives western leaders a pretty piece of paper to wave while they declare that we will now have peace in our time…

Also disturbing is the revelation that Obama knew in advance about the release of the Lockerbie bomber by the UK.  And our closest ally has also sent their SAS to train Gaddafi’s soldiers; a development that most likely will lead to no good at some point down the road.

 But the pièce de résistance may be the most recent announcement of Chavez and Putin working together for a nuclear Venezuela!  Add to this the Russian bombers stationed there, and the increasing visits by the Russian navy, and the result is a disturbing scenario emerging centered on a Dictator who has voiced his wished to be a regional strongman.  How can the President allow these escalations to occur, and will they ultimately lead to a “Cuban Missile Crisis” type of scenario for Mr. Obama or his successor?

Only time will tell, but it seems that “smart” power doesn’t impress our adversaries as much as “strong” power did.  But then, Joey B. did say that Obama would be tested…

Let’s hope he does well.  But still, “Gird your loins” as Slo Joe said, because all we have is hope since the most Honest!, Ethical!, Transparent! President EVAH! never felt the need to do as, you know,  all of his predecessors of the last 50 years or so have done and release, among other details of his life history,  his college grades!

 I guess he’s special…