The most basic feature that the United States should expect from an ally is consistent, reliable behavior that benefits U.S. policy objectives.
Ideally, since America regards itself as a champion of democracy and freedom, an ally should embody those values as well, but Washington has never been a stickler for that standard.
Indeed, the United States has a sordid history of collaboration with undemocratic, even odious, regimes when U.S. leaders believed that the relationship was important to America’s security or economic interests.
President Donald Trump’s fawning over Saudi Arabia is clear evidence that such a cynical attitude remains intact.
Given Washington’s record, it…