You are surely correct when you say that Eastern Europe watches nervously as America improves relations with Russia (“Not Captivating Now,” July 11, 2009). Your quote of an anonymous Eastern European leader puts things succinctly: “Obama doesn’t have a Europe policy. But neither does Europe.” Very well put, indeed. One can be sure, however, that America is much closer to having a Europe policy than Europe will ever be. For Europe is but an American protectorate ever since World War II. And a protectorate has little say in forming a policy about itself. Its input may be ceremonial at best, and Obama will undoubtedly do whatever needs doing to ensure just such an input when the time comes. This is how things are most likely to remain indefinitely, as well. The very anonymity of the Eastern European leader you quote says this much, albeit in an appropriately veiled sort of way.