In my mind, France has been operating under the stand European mantle of 'balance of power' international poltics. Recent years have seen more of an equilibrium amongst world powers than the second half of the twentieth century. In that mindset, I see the future stage of international politics not as one of unilateral dominance or bi-lateral dominace, but instead a multilateral 'balance,' with major players being the United States, EU, Russia, Japan, China, and possibly the South Asian subcontinent (gotta show the love). As the world hopefully moves away from a dependence on oil, these countries with a more diversified economy will have an even larger share in the oligarchy to come.
That being said, we are still in the here and now. France wishes, as any country does, to distinguish itself. I don't find it surprising that any dissent would occur in any democracy, UN included. Unfortunately, when a country with the influence of the United States cannot pursue an agenda due to intrasigent opposition, unilateral action tends to follow. I love France, and am a great admirer of French culture. However, I don't find their actions to be entirely altruistic, unlike Germany's.
Don't be hating on the French, or the British who tried to contain the Nazis. If anything, they were more conscious of their inability to stand up against the Third Reich than anyone else. The United States made it clear time and time again that we would not distinguish between victim and aggressor in another European War. And what about De Gaulle and the rest of his administration? Did THEY give up and give out? Ah, but there's so much else.. learn a bit before you slam a people; I may not disrespect.
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"Wave of mutilation."
-The Pixies
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