Abstrakt: | This article examines the significance of the military factor in Franco-American
relations since the World War II. The relations between France and the United States in
many ways can be perceived as unique, especially considering their military dimension.
Since the World War II both countries were forced to cooperate closely in the military
matters. US became major French partner and ally until Charles de Gaulle became
a president of the 5th Republic. Although France was dependant on the American military
assistance programs, it became apparent that both countries had diff erent interests in
security area. It was clearly visible during de Gaulle presidency, when France left NATO’s
military structure in order to regain its full sovereignty. In the seventies military relations
between two countries became slightly better, however France still maintained its “unique”
position within NATO. Paradoxically military factor became more important in the bilateral
relations in the Post-Cold War Era. France since the beginning of nineties participated
in multiple US-led military operations: in Iraq, Balkans or in Afghanistan. Such activity
before 1989, basing on Gaullist security policy, would be impossible. Paris systematically
reintegrated itself into the NATO’s military structures. Th is process was completed in
March 2009. Th is article observes two opposite tendencies in these relations. On the one
hand, military matters oft en created tensions between France and the United States aft er
World War II. On the other hand however, both countries are close military allies and they
frequently cooperate in security matters, especially in the Post-Cold War era. It became
apparent during the Nicolas Sarkozy presidency 2007–2012. |