From the Atlantic Council: [T]he Obama team has struggled to counter criticism that its missile defense decision undermines its Czech and Polish allies and weakens Central Europe’s confidence in U.S. leadership. Critics say that the administration’s rollout of its policy and its poor consultations with allies left much to be desired. Even Under Secretary Tauscher admitted as much in her remarks at the Council. The ‘reset’ policy, the decreased emphasis on democracy promotion in U.S. foreign policy, and the administration’s new missile defense policy have left some leading Atlanticists in Central and Eastern Europe worried about the Obama administration’s commitment to its security. Leading Republican commentators, particularly figures from the previous administration, have been highly effective in their criticisms of the Obama administration’s awkward diplomacy towards its Central and East European allies. (graphic: Michael Ramirez)