Final Word from Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Just when you think you've figured out the Czech government, it throws you a curveball. Such is the case with the decision yesterday to delay recognition of Kosovo. Recent Czech foreign-policy decisions seem to have been guided largely by either the country's association with the U.S., or by the interests of ČEZ. By delaying recognition for Kosovo, both of these special relationships are being dealt a setback. The U.S. will go into the Nato summit next week looking somewhat weaker (it can sell the CR nonfunctional missile defense but not real-life Kosovan independence), and ČEZ risks losing a big energy deal with the independent government of Kosovo. Czechs in general feel solidarity for the Serbs and will approve of their government's decision to at least delay the decision on recognition. And perhaps this is what it's all about. The government will gain some goodwill with regard to Serbia that it hopes to spend when it shoves the radar down its citizens' throats.[Czech Republic Serbia shield]
Glossary of difficult words
to throw someone a curveball - (from baseball) to surprise someone with an unexpected move;
setback - a reversal or check in progress;
goodwill - friendly, helpful or cooperative feelings or attitude;
to shove something down someone's throat - to force something on someone against his will.