Even the European's are saying it now...

via Defense Management...

The conflict in Libya should act as a "wake-up call" to the European NATO members making a "pathetic" contribution to NATO operations, Defence Secretary Liam Fox has said.

Answering questions after speaking at the Royal United Services Institute, Fox said that too many European nations in NATO were "trying to get a free ride" off the US when it came to their own security.

"It is quite clear that they [the US] cannot continue to shoulder the burden of everyone else's defence,' said Fox.

"When we look at the sometimes pathetic contributions being made by some countries inside NATO, the European elements of NATO cannot expect the US to come to our aid on every occasion.

"Far too many of our European partners are still trying to get a free ride and they should regard Libya as a wake-up call.

"The US will not always be there to bail them out and if they want an insurance policy they should think about paying the premium."

Despite the extra strain caused by the relative lack of support, Fox said that the UK would be involved in Libya for 'as long as it takes' and that it was important not to suggest there was an endpoint to NATO's commitment in the country.

"When we talk about Libya we need to be absolutely unequivocal about the signals that we send to the regime.

"The regime will take nothing but comfort from those who say we may not have the will, may not have the money, may not have the capabilities.

"Those listening in Libya should be absolutely crystal clear. We do not lack political resolve, we do not lack military capabilities and we will see our mission through."

Wow.

But before Fox slams other European countries he might want to look in the mirror.  He's gutted his own forces and his plan for the future appears to have him riding either US or French coat tails.