President Obama to Replace Bush’s Permanent Missile Defense Shield Plans with “More Agile” System
EmailThis morning Secretary of Defense Gates will announce that the Obama administration will scrap plans for a permanent defense shield to be built in the Czech Republic and Poland and roll out what a senior administration official called "a major enhancement of missile defense capability against the emerging threat of short- and medium-range ballistic missiles. He'll underscore the commitment to our allies while enhancing defense of our troops and facilities in Europe."
The new system would be "both more agile and more effective and will come on-lines sooner than the existing program," the official said.
The White House will today argue that the decision was not based on appeasing Russia — which had vehemently objected to the missile defense system — but rather on what the U.S. needs to do and what it can do based on the clearest threat — short and medium range ballistic missiles from rogue states such as Iran.
President George W. Bush had moved to build in the Czech Republic a radar with 10 interceptor missiles in Poland. The administration official would not say where the new system would be located, saying the U.S. has a "range of options in Northern and Southern Europe."
Czech Prime Minister Jan Fischer today told reporters that "shortly after midnight, Barack Obama telephoned me to announce that his government is backing away from the intention of building a missile defense radar on Czech territory. The Czech Republic acknowledges the decision."
In Poland, Andrzej Kremer, the deputy Foreign Minister responsible for the project, that "from different sources we hear there are serious chances the shield won't be deployed here," Reuters reported.
Russian leaders had not yet been told about the plan, the Obama administration official said.
In July, in his first meeting with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, President Obama was treated to a nearly hour-long discourse by Putin on the history of the US-Russian relationship since the Cold War, and ways he felt Russia had been slighted by the US, sources told ABC News.
"The prime minister was very communicative in terms of his opinions," a senior administration official later said.
The meeting ran long. But as President Obama explained to former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev — whom he was subsequently late meeting — "I thought it was important to listen," sources told ABC News.
-jpt
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“The new system would be ‘both more agile and more effective and will come on-lines sooner than the existing program,’ the official said.”
Of course, Obama offers no details at all.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 8:30 am 8:30 am
oh Geez, with the track record so far of this administration, this scares me.
Posted by: Jenny | September 17, 2009, 8:35 am 8:35 am
“Of course, Obama offers no details at all.”
What do you mean? There are apparently a “range of options in N. and S. Europe”. Isn’t this enough detail for you? /sarc.
BTW – It would seem to me that if the system they are proposing is a better option, why wasn’t it done to begin with? Also, I wonder what these options are…. I don’t see the Germans, the Spanish, the Italians, the French (obviously), etc. signing up to be one of these “options”. This leaves E. Europe and we’ve just ticked off two of of the best candidates (outside of Hungary) to host such a system. Other than appeasing the Russians, I don’t understand why this is being done (except that Barry is on a quest to do the “exact opposite” of everythng Bush was in favor of doing – except the “dirty” stuff like renditions, Patriot act, Bagram, etc.).
A chip has been pulled from the table before any earnest bargaining has begun.
Posted by: tjp612 | September 17, 2009, 8:49 am 8:49 am
Well surely this brilliant, persuasive young President got Russia to cooperate with us regarding Hugo Chavez?
No wait, they just announced that Russia will help Venezuela, another oil-rich country, develop “nuclear energy”–just like they did with Iran.
So, Vlad wins again.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 8:49 am 8:49 am
It all sounds very nice, but what did we get from they Russian crybabies in return and where is the system going to go?
At least Obama doesn’t appear to be following the left of his party over a cliff by abandoning missile defense altogether.
More details, please.
Posted by: Bridget | September 17, 2009, 8:55 am 8:55 am
Time for the US to stop being the world’s policeman.
Posted by: Rick McDaniel | September 17, 2009, 9:21 am 9:21 am
If there was ever any question that Obama is a naive buffoon, this should allay any doubts whatsoever. I am sure every leader of tyrannical regimes around the world are laughing at this boob we have for a president. Make no mistake about it – everytime America has looked weak or let her guard down it has invited war. We are in trouble – deep trouble.
Posted by: Not-a-RINO | September 17, 2009, 9:22 am 9:22 am
Why would Russia care if we have a missle shield if they have no plans to attack?
Posted by: jamescbuilder | September 17, 2009, 9:28 am 9:28 am
Truly an example of inexperience and ignorance.Mr. Obama’s horrible lack of knowledge about World War II (Americans liberating Auschwitz ?!) and modern European history is absolutely appalling.With this one stroke he has destroyed the goodwill and trust this country has developed with Eastern Europe since the fall of the Berlin Wall.Has he no strategic grasp of the consequences of this action?Look at Iraq-despite the campaign promises he is basically continuing the Bush strategy (no new ideas?).Afganistan-what are we getting for the increased deaths over what we previously had?Does he have a strategy that has any realistic chance of success? Does he have ANY knowledge about the history of foreign intervention in Afganistan over the last 200 years?Is Dennis Kucinich in the White House? Oh sorry, that’s racist.
Posted by: Nephron | September 17, 2009, 9:33 am 9:33 am
Did we get any cooperation from Russia in return regarding Iran?? No, not there either.
Obama’s announcement comes just days after Russia declared that NO, there will not be any new sanctions against Iran to punish them for nuclear development.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 9:35 am 9:35 am
Feels like appeasement to the Russians… But since the Russians have agreed to back sanctions on Iran to discontinue nuclear armament program, good move by administration.
Oh, wait – Russia stated last week they DON’T support additional sanctions on Iran?
Seems like Putin pulled Obama aside and told him “the way it was going to be”. The bodycount of allies we’ve aggravated continues to rise (Poles, Czechs, Ukrainians, British, Hondurans, etc., etc., etc.)
Posted by: tjp612 | September 17, 2009, 9:44 am 9:44 am
This whole issue is just a distraction, since missile defense is just an unproven technology and a waste of money…..Right?….Right?
Last month Russia deployed a missile defense system near its border with North Korea. “We are definitely concerned by the conditions under which tests are being carried out in North Korea, including nuclear devices,” the chief of Russia’s general staff Nikolai Makarov.
Sounds like all the same resons to protect Europe from Iranian missiles–which was the purpose of the Eastern European systems.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 9:44 am 9:44 am
“Truly an example of inexperience and ignorance.Mr. Obama’s horrible lack of knowledge about World War II (Americans liberating Auschwitz ?!) and modern European history is absolutely appalling.”
Apparently you did not read Jake’s post closely enough. Putin gave Obama a “history lesson” and set him straight. /sarc.
Posted by: tjp612 | September 17, 2009, 9:48 am 9:48 am
Of course, Obama offers no details at all.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | Sep 17, 2009 8:30:47 AM
I’m pretty sure it involves keeping your tires properly inflated and keeping your current plan if you like it.
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | September 17, 2009, 9:51 am 9:51 am
Doesn’t Obama just give ya a warm and fuzzy feeling all over?
Posted by: joedoe | September 17, 2009, 9:52 am 9:52 am
“The new system would be ‘both more agile and more effective and will come on-lines sooner than the existing program,’ the official said.”
Probably involves a reach-around.
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | September 17, 2009, 9:53 am 9:53 am
“Russian leaders had not yet been told about the plan, the Obama administration official said.”
Apparently everyone with Internet access knows – but the Russians don’t know yet. ROFLMAO!
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | September 17, 2009, 9:57 am 9:57 am
And the announcement was made on a significant date. Anyone who remembers history 101 want to guess?
Posted by: Professor Sellout | September 17, 2009, 9:57 am 9:57 am
Forty-four percent (44%) now favor the President’s health care plan . That’s unchanged from before the speech…and from July. Public opinion on the issue appears to be hardening. A Rasmussen video report notes that 53% of those with insurance believe they would be forced to change coverage if the proposed health care reform is approved.
Posted by: Fascist Hyena | September 17, 2009, 10:04 am 10:04 am
This new missile defense system will be so agile that nobody will even know it is there!
Posted by: Vaporware | September 17, 2009, 10:10 am 10:10 am
Has anybody seen my laser pistol, if you have found it, please give it to the POTUS right away, it needs to deploy to eastern europe ASAP!
Posted by: Captain Kirk | September 17, 2009, 10:13 am 10:13 am
“And the announcement was made on a significant date. Anyone who remembers history 101 want to guess?”
I had to look this up (jaw drops):
===================================
September 17th, 1939
Russia invades Eastern Poland, takes 217,000 Poles prisoner
===================================
I am stunned… I’m sure the Poles are VERY aware of what today is, particularly given it is the 70th anniversary.
The incompetence and/or willful evil intent of this administration is stunning…and very dangerous.
Posted by: tjp612 | September 17, 2009, 10:13 am 10:13 am
“The new system would be ‘both more agile and more effective and will come on-lines sooner than the existing program,’ the official said.”
Sounds like the serial lie that health care reform will be paid for with “savings”……sweet, magical, wonderful savings–raining down from the sky like gumdrops.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 10:14 am 10:14 am
September 17th, 1939
Russia invades Eastern Poland, takes 217,000 Poles prisoner
Posted by: tjp612 | Sep 17, 2009 10:13:51 AM
Maybe they will make it a Day of Service and Remembrance
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | September 17, 2009, 10:17 am 10:17 am
raining down from the sky like gumdrops.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | Sep 17, 2009 10:14:23 AM
While multi-colored unicorns dance in street trampling right-wing fear mongerers and gun-toting extremists.
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | September 17, 2009, 10:19 am 10:19 am
Other notable events on today’s date:
===============================
1940: Hitler begins invasion of England
1940: Nazis deprive Jews of possessions
1980: Solidarity labor union in Poland forms
===============================
Great job, Barry & Cronies. Great, great timing. When is Hillary going to resign?
Posted by: tjp612 | September 17, 2009, 10:21 am 10:21 am
“While multi-colored unicorns dance in street trampling right-wing fear mongerers and gun-toting extremists.”
Posted by: Go Green. Recycle Congress! | Sep 17, 2009 10:19:26 AM
That would make a great ad on MSNBC.
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 10:25 am 10:25 am
“The decision, confirmed this morning by the government of the Czech Republic, provoked dismay in Eastern and Central Europe, where the planned shield had been seen as a guarantee of US support for the fledgling democracies of the old Soviet Bloc.”
Posted by: Fascist Hyena | September 17, 2009, 10:39 am 10:39 am
Kudos to Professor Sellout.Will this make the mainstream media? JAKE-ASK GIBBS WHAT SEPT 17 MEANS TO THE POLISH PEOPLE!!!! THIS is the date that will live in infamy along the Vistula.If any body has doubts about the historic ignorance of this president they must be blind.What have we come to?
Posted by: Nephron | September 17, 2009, 10:40 am 10:40 am
Looking at the bright side, at least we got concessions from Puketin right?
Anyone?
Bueller?
Posted by: Foghorn Leghorn | September 17, 2009, 10:59 am 10:59 am
Here’s the former Czech prime minister, Mirek Topolanek: “This is not good news for the Czech state, for Czech freedom and independence. It puts us in a position wherein we are not firmly anchored in terms of partnership, security and alliance, and that’s a certain threat.”
Posted by: Fascist Hyena | September 17, 2009, 11:01 am 11:01 am
“More agile”?
Like a bunch of slingshots?
Sooner or later even the left wing media has to notice that Obama is bowing to all of enemies and hurting our allies.
Obama is still trying to overturn the democracy in Honduras.
Posted by: drjohn | September 17, 2009, 11:09 am 11:09 am
There must be a lot of backslapping, toasts and laughter coming from Russia. Iraq, North Korea, and all other enemies of the US.
Obama’s spine is as weak as his resume.
If his goal is to level the field
and diminish our superpower status I think Obama is suceeding—with the economy, health care, and defense.
Posted by: ollie | September 17, 2009, 11:54 am 11:54 am
Well now, surely the President who invented the term “Smart Power” will get cooperation from Putin in the Republic of Georgia???
Nope, not gonna happen here either:
—Russia just signed 49 year military cooperation agreements with the “defense ministers” of Abkhazia and South Ossetia (both of whom just happen to be Russian citizens). The agreements call for Russia to build bases, station 1,700 ground troops in each enclave, and provide air space security and control. Russia will also train and equip Abkhaz and South Ossetian forces. Each of these steps is in UTTER DEFIANCE OF THE CEASE-FIRE negotiated by French President Sarkozy and endorsed by the EU, which required Russian and Georgian forces to return to where they were prior to hostilities. As Russia expands its illegal military presence, don’t expect Sarkozy or the EU to raise a peep.
As for the Obama Administration, their policy toward Georgia seems to consist of nothing more than providing training but refusing to provide even defensive weapons, leaving Georgia CONVENIENTLY DEFENSELESS on the platter for the Russian bear. The costs of Obama hitting “the reset button” will be very high for Poles, Czechs, Georgians, and the many other Central and East Europeans that have relied on the United States for security. All Moscow sees now is a green light for aggression.—
Posted by: Appeasement Czar | September 17, 2009, 11:58 am 11:58 am
Pucker up Obama.
The line is forming for more appeasement form the WH.
First Russia.
Who is next?
Does Obama actually think world leaders like Putin and Ahmadinejad actually respect him and soft power?
They do not respect weakness.
America is in big trouble buth domestic and foreign.
Posted by: jack | September 17, 2009, 11:59 am 11:59 am
Obama says this will be cheaper and more effective.
Sound familiar?
Same thing he says about health care.
Posted by: max | September 17, 2009, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm
That old Obama magic:
“Just before President Obama gave his speech to Congress last week , 44% of voters nationwide supported his health care reform proposal and 53% were opposed. Today, eight days after the speech and a brief bounce, a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 44% support the health care plan and 53% are opposed. Absolutely no change.”
Posted by: Fascist Hyena | September 17, 2009, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm
Some of these comments ignore the fact that it was difficult to get Poland and the Czech Republic to sign on to the project in the first place. Per FP Passport: “Around 70 percent of Czechs opposed the idea of hosting the radar system for the missile shield and the final treaty faced strong opposition in parliament. The Polish public was more supportive of the idea, but their government held out for months on agreeing to host the missile interceptors, only signing on after the Bush administration agreed to fund an extensive military modernization program.”
In addition, I think it’s important to note that the decision was based on the unanimous recommendation of Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Gates said the new system would put defenses in place seven years earlier than the Bush plan, and that the new configuration “provides a better missile defense capability” for Europe and American forces there “than the program I recommended almost three years ago.”
Posted by: Alyson | September 17, 2009, 4:33 pm 4:33 pm
Here are the thoughts of one Community Activist — a hero and courageous leader — about the actions of that other community activist, lying sycophant and coward, upon hearing of the plans to scrap the missile shield:
“Americans have always cared only about their interests, and all other [countries] have been used for their purposes. This is another example. [Poles] need to review our view of America, we must first of all take care of our business… I could tell from what I saw, what kind of policies President Obama cultivates. I simply don’t like this policy, not because this shield was required [in Poland], but [because of] the way we were treated.” –Lech Walesa*
My prayers are with you, Eastern Europe.
Posted by: Carol | September 17, 2009, 8:42 pm 8:42 pm