The European leaders all seem to be taking the same tack as the US
It seems silly for the press to call the paid thugs in Cairo "pro-Mubarak demonstraters," but I suppose they have to until there is some proof that they are (in the main) not legitimate citizen supporters of Mubarak.
The military is walking a thin line, but it makes sense from their perspective.
I think most of us agree that they are only concerned about their own interests, and are willing to use Mubarak and the people in any way that will support theose interests.
While they don't seem to be trying to put a halt to the pro-Mubarak force's aggression, they have taken some minor steps to keep the melee at a dull roar.
I don't think we will see them take concrete action unless and until the current clashes appear to be totally out of control. At that point they can step in with force simply to "restore order," without taking sides.
The military needs time, and they can't have these massive demonstrations shutting down Cairo while they decide on a course of action, and they can't have a huge mob settled in the central city instantly passing judgment on each and every announced plan for change. They need to get the people back in their houses or back to work.
It appears that it will take increased violence to accomplish that goal.
Ironic that, if and when, the military makes its move the thugs paid 50 pounds to throw rocks in support of Mubarak are just as likely to have their heads cracked open as any student demonstrator. Do you think Mubarak knows he's throwing his "supporters" into a meat-grinder? Of course he does.
If and when this turns even uglier, Egyptians can count on condemnations from the rest of the world, but I'm afraid that's all.
But who knows?
Maybe the younger officers will join with the demonstrators and there will be a full scale revolution, leading to Cairo's Continental Congress of 2011.
