Bubba Diplomacy

Spencer Ackerman says it's hard to see the damage done to American interests by having President Clinton fly into North Korea for a little hostage rescue. It's not every day I agree with John Bolton, but I think he does raise a legitimate concern about what other hostage-takers are going to expect in the future. If the North Koreans get President Clinton, who will the Iranians want for their hostages?

As for Steve Clemons' (channeling Senator Kerry) suggestion that this is going to crack open a new door in our nuclear negotiations, that too is hard to see. Insofar as it was impossible to negotiate with the North while they were holding Americans hostage, it would seem the stage is set for renewed talks. But nothing about this episode changes the fundamental dynamic of the North's nuclear ambitions.

Nevertheless, and not to sound churlish, it's good to see the hostages released.