[xsysmgr]

We should do this not to punish any ally who did not agree with us, nor even simply to reward our newest (and supportive) European allies, but to serve the strategic interests of the United States of America.

The strategic interest of the US is paramount, but rewarding those who support us and punishing those who do not is nice, too.

[Bonaparte]

Actually, the rewards and punishments are a vital part of serving our strategic interests. Suffer an insult or betrayal from just one of these hyenas, and the whole pack will be circling you.