For much of my lifetime this would have prompted an international crisis that dominated headlines and conversations. There would have been prominent stories noting that the U.S. was heightening alert for nuclear forces, and a certain frenzy for and against a possible approaching war would be rife.
This week however, this hasn't even been the top story, failing to eclipse the mystery of a missing airliner or even March Madness and the latest show business gossip. Although Republicans are screeching about national strength and honor etc. as they would have, they immediately sober up when the question of military force is suggested.
While everybody apparently seems prepared for the long game in this situation, while not neglecting political advantage for upcoming elections, I probably should feel reassured. But actually I don't, not yet. Ignoring dire possibilities may well have contributed as much to both world wars as did the awful readiness and eagerness of some to wage them.
One prominent Russian voice on state media did say the N word, suggesting that Russia still had the power to turn the U.S. to radioactive dust. But I haven't seen a counter blast of dangerous bluster. So that's good. But it would probably be a good thing to know what is being done in terms of western nuclear forces. There are still enough nuclear bombs to level much of civilization.
Maybe it's just because I grew up with the Cold War and the nuclear sword dangling over the playground, but I worry that this history and the dangers it suggest are not sufficiently in the minds of those now in charge. Based on his past statements and his knowledge of his office, I seriously doubt that includes President Obama, but otherwise I wonder.
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