[madrussian]

I am not aware of the US threatening to obliterate countries that aren't involved in a potential conflict. Also, the US isn't using this as a tool to extort more aid.

[Republic of Texas]

Like I said it's not overt, but we have 'em and everyone knows it. Our policy is to respond IN KIND to any attack. We don't extort aid because WE are the aid givers, something the world seems to conveniently forget. If we were surrounded by countries that wanted us wiped off the face of the earth, and we were strategic to someone else, say France (snicker), I'm sure they would support us.