Unilateral arrogance

President Bush has nominated John R. Bolton to be Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, the No. 3 position in the State Department. If confirmed, Bolton could significantly change U.S. foreign policy.

Major responsibilities include directing and coordinating arms- control policy, nonproliferation policy, foreign assistance programs and military assistance programs for the State Department. Organizations with a vested interest in arms-control treaties, missile defense, nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction, military assistance and even some human rights treaties should be concerned about this nomination.

Bolton’s policy positions are in opposition to many arms-control agreements, including the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. Bolton also is a leading opponent of the International Criminal Court. Bolton’s unilateral arrogance has the potential to turn friends into enemies, and to make enemies arm for war.

Shirley L. Davis

Orono