However, a mid-morning ISM manufacturing index slid to just above the critical break-even reading and further than investors were braced for indicating a further stall in economic activity even if only in the less important sector.

FORBES: Treasuries Rally After Manufacturing Slump Triggers Growth Worry

In overnight news, Spanish 10-year bond yields poked above the critical 6% level Thursday, as the European Union sovereign debt crisis continues to fester.

FORBES: A.M. Kitco Metals Roundup: Gold Modestly Higher as Outside Markets Mildly Bullish

Apparently, all of the above were considered military-grade, mission-critical methods of communication 100 years ago.

FORBES: What is the Ultimate Ruggedized Mobile Device?

As I have mentioned in this space during the past couple of weeks, the VIX is trading at a critical level--just above its 80-week moving average and around the highs of 2007-2008.

FORBES: Don't Sell This May

On the European Union debt crisis front, an Italian bond auction was well-subscribed Tuesday, but yields were still at or above the critical 7% level that is deemed in the danger zone for credit default.

FORBES: Comex Gold Ends Firmer On Weaker U.S. Dollar, Higher Crude Oil

Accordingly, the West must act swiftly in the ways listed above to punish Serbia for its aggressive behavior by destroying those assets most valued by the Milosevic regime -- and most critical to its continued hold on power.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy