We asked Army Gen. David Petraeus, commander of US Central Command, whether he had, as we had been told, apologized to Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz for the “joke” Petraeus made about a USAF officer with his pony-tail swinging. He replied: “I did apologize to the CSAF. … Right after it was clear that what was intended in jest was seen by some, understandably, as disparaging. I’ve spent more than six of the last eight years in joint operations with all services, and I think most folks who have worked around me will regard me as a serious team builder. If you look at my remarks at the recent [Air Forces Central Change of Command], you’ll find my true regard for our Air Force.” (Petraeus’ AFCENT remarks)
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.