In France, grilled relentlessly by French television interviewers, Vladimir Putin refuses to say he’d veto a second U.N. resolution. It’s “not necessary right now.” The French will have taken the message. There’s still a chance for a U.N.-backed war. Powell’s presentation persuaded the American public, and the Europeans have noticed. It’s still up for grabs.
SCHRODER BUNGLES: “Germany as the odd man out? This must be the nightmare now wafting through the chancellor’s office. Can it be banished? Yes, if coldly calculated interest prevails. It whispers ever so loudly: ‘Don’t mess with Mr Big unless the stronger battalions are on your side.’ Belgium is not enough.” – Josef Joffe on why Bismarck must be spinning in his grave.
The Dish 