Obama said he would make global warming a priority, but drew back from matching carbon cuts proposed by other developed countries. Instead of making an agreement with Europe and Japan, he struck a deal with the emerging economies whose emissions targets are less ambitious.

He wants to pull out of Afghanistan by sending more troops. This is a particularly dangerous game that is likely to see yet more troops trapped in an endless occupation. The U.S. is now talking about negotiations with the Taliban. But that would undermine its original excuse for going to war and mean leaving Afghanistan without a victory.

It is fair to say Obama has improved domestic economic stability. Wall Street has recovered some of its vigor. The employment situation is finally improving and exchange rate fluctuations are moderating. Above all, his healthcare bill has passed in both houses and consumer confidence is growing.

But these domestic achievements remain partial and uncertain. The U.S. remains heavily indebted and Obama will find it increasingly difficult to raise money for his ambitious programs. His policy options are restricted, and other countries are alert to potential moves to cut the US debt by devaluing the dollar. Meanwhile increasing trade protectionism has aroused protests from many quarters.

At root, Obama is a pragmatist who seeks national security at the cost of international insecurity. But with the concept of US national security extended to include the entire world, he is facing multiple global and regional issues and it is likely that no measures he takes will be effective.

The author is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/node_7075407.htm

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