U.S. Leading from Behind in Libya? Thoughts for NATO before the Chicago Summit
Abstract
Multinational military intervention in Libya from March 2011 until the end of October 2011 revealed a new media-induced U.S. policy labeled as the "U.S. Leading from Behind." After a review of the actual data and measures taken by the United States during Operation Odyssey Dawn (OOD) and Operation Unified Protector (OUP), the question becomes is "leading from behind" a myth or reality? As the effects from the Arab Spring permeated into Libya, to prevent further atrocities against civilians, the United States and her allies responded. Led by a Canadian Air Force Major General, NATO successfully adhered to the United Nations resolution that resulted in the defeat of the Gaddafi regime, with the Libyan people being in charge of their country. NATO was the instrument of peace restoration, but this time with the United States alone providing capabilities Europeans still do not have or cannot sustain. This paper will answer the following questions: Regarding Libya, did the United States lead from behind?, Could the Europeans have done it alone without any help from the United States?, Was the absence of some European military capabilities new news or the result of years of imbalance?, What can NATO do in the future to remain relevant during the reduction of defense budgets?, and Are there any lessons learned or simple thoughts that can be used by senior decision makers in preparation for the Chicago Summit in May 2012?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 25, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA592511
Entities
People
- Kevin Vizzarri
Organizations
- Istituto Alti Studi per la Difesa