Arrr, reckon ye thought the US abandonin' Afghanistan was a paltry tale? Behold, thar's trouble 'pon the Pacific horizon!
2024-02-14
Arrr, matey! The mighty U.S. be needin' three treaties to control the Central Pacific, worth a grand $120 million a year. But if we be failin' to deliver, China be grinnin' like a Cheshire cat, ye savvy?
In a humorous tone, the author discusses the potential consequences of the United States failing to renew the Compacts of Free Association (COFA) agreements with Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Marshall Islands. These agreements are crucial for American control and military operations in the Central Pacific. The author highlights that the COFAs grant the United States legal authority to operate freely in the region and keep other nations' militaries out. The three nations receive financial support from the U.S. and have the right for their citizens to reside and work in America. However, the agreements are up for renewal and face several challenges.One major issue is the $2.3 billion in offsets required to fund the COFAs. The author criticizes the triviality of this amount compared to the money spent in Afghanistan. Congress and the White House are blamed for the lack of action and failure to find the necessary funds. The author suggests cutting Defense Equality and Inclusion (DEI) programs and reducing the number of flag officers in the Department of Defense (DOD) to redirect the money.
The author warns that losing the Central Pacific would have severe consequences, as China already has a strong presence in the region and aims to pry these nations away from the United States. The COFA nations have deep attachments to the U.S., but their patience is not unlimited. The author emphasizes that the price of not renewing the agreements could be paid by many dead American service personnel.
In a humorous twist, the author suggests that Japan might step in to offer financial support if the U.S. government fails to get the job done. Japan has previously supported the American military presence in their country and even contributed to the U.S. financial system during the 2008 crisis. The author concludes by stating that if the U.S. cannot secure the COFA agreements, they deserve to lose.