Clarification, I am sure, is forthcoming, whether the decision is rescinded or not. I would hope that it wasn't merely a sop to the notoriously short-sighted Quebecois. Criticizing the U.S. for acting in a unilateral fashion is fine, but then forcing us to do so makes no sense at all.
"I would hope that it wasn't merely a sop to the notoriously short-sighted Quebecois."
It seems to be the consensus up here that this is exactly what it was.
On a personal note, I'm married to a Quebecois and like you, melancholy, we cannot discuss politics. :) And a year ago at Christmas, after a bit too much holiday cheer, I got into a serious argument with someone in his family who insisted the U.S. was itching to send young Americans to die in Iraq only "pour le petrol."
*insert eye-rolling smiley*
On an interesting note, the provincial premier of Quebec, Jean Charest, is taking part of a group of influential Canadians and Americans who are concerned about the relationship. They recently issued a report stating that Canada should join BMD.
It would be nice if Charest or some other Quebec leader could *lead* and try to change public opinion here.