> depending on the US to defend them was a poisonous mistake, even if a very seductive one. It was a decision that was necessary to not loose the second world

> depending on the US to defend them was a poisonous mistake, even if a very seductive one. It was a decision that was necessary to not loose the second world war to Germany and/or the Sovietunion. Until 30 years ago separating from the US would have meant allowing the Sovietunion to expand to the Atlantic. Separating from the US has been an open discussion for the last 30 years, but it was always felt to be a security risk and the US has actively used its soft power to remain the status quo.