They rely on the US 100% for defense.
When their military wants to go anywhere, we fly them there.
They really are like one of our states, and their military is akin to a state's national guard.
They even sold off their entire gold reserves. What self respecting nation would do that? They know they don't need it though. Why? Because the US will take care of them. We are their insurance. And, of course we will protect them when that is needed.
They are able to call themselves a "nation" because of their dependence on the U.S. and for no other reason.
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