You might want to look at the relations between Germany and Croatia.
Had the US not stepped up to the plate, NATO would have in essence died on the spot, and there were in fact some in Europe and especially in Russia who were hoping for just that. Within Europe some see NATO as an organization that is not European but controls their security. On the streets the average European sees NATO post Cold War as superfluous. There have been numerous attempts at building pan-European security organizations “outside” of NATO control. France especially within Europe sees their influence being based on security concerns and NATO stands in direct competition to this. There is a reason why when tension rose between the Germans and US in 2002/3, the French immediately suggested that they can place Europe under protection of the French nuclear umbrella, something they seem to float every time there is tension. Had we not acted, this would have precipitated a European response outside of NATO eventually, but before that would have happened, NATO would have died. It would have been a breech in confidence we can nearly expect from half of them on a continuous basis, but we can’t allow for our selves if we want to preserve an international security system like NATO. Yes, it would have ripped NATO to pieces.
Very accurate/informed statement. There’s a lot of tension within NATO itself, as France and Germany struggle to be the leaders of the EU continent. A number of smaller members realize, howerver, that only the US is the ultimate guarantor of their security.
The problem is where extended in ME, and if the Russians push back this time things could really get interesting.
If NATO is in place to enforce German dreams and punish Germany's old enemies, let it go.
Don't worry, they'll drop a dime next time they get in trouble.