Aw Eric, they are just trying to make Russia great again!   What's crushing a few autonomous nations if it means Putin can feel good about himself returning Russia to its glory years of extreme civil repression.

I'm not disappointed with the statement from Merkel and the remaining states concerning Trumps lack of commitment.    If they are no longer willing to trust the word of the US, and maybe they shouldn't, I'm good with them funding more of their own defense.    The have nuclear weapons without the US, so Russia is not likely to run them over like they might have 60 years ago.

Yes it will diminish the international status of the United States, but being a kid of the 60's I have never really been happy with our role as world police.    A more shared leadership, including financial responsibility might make Europe stronger, not weaker.    That's OK.     

*Hmm, you think in 20 years will be MACRON hotels in Manhattan?