The accurate contrast is that Passage 1 focuses on the assurance to European allies about defense plans, while Passage 2 details Powell's attempt to sell the defense plan to NATO. Here option D is correct.
The contrast between the two passages lies in their focus on different topics related to international relations, specifically the United States' defense plans and its engagement with European allies in 2005.
Passage 1 primarily discusses Secretary of State Colin Powell's assurance to America's European allies regarding the Bush administration's defense plans. It emphasizes the importance of taking the concerns of the closest global partners seriously to avoid straining the Atlantic alliance unnecessarily.
On the other hand, Passage 2 details Secretary Powell's first attempt to sell President Bush's defense plan to allies, particularly at a meeting with NATO. It highlights Powell's inability to convince NATO members of the existence of a threat against their countries and mentions the administration's case for abandoning the 1972 treaty. Here option D is correct.
Complete question:
Passage 1 (from a 2005 article)
Secretary of State Colin Powell assured America's European allies this week that the Bush administration was not engaging in a "phony consultation" with them about defense. We hope he means it, because Washington's closest global partners have grave misgivings about the administration's plans. Unless Secretary Powell and his colleagues take these concerns seriously, the United States could needlessly strain the Atlantic alliance.
Passage 2 (from a 2005 article)
In his first effort to sell President Bush's defense plan to allies, Secretary of State Colin Powell was unable to convince NATO that any threat against their countries exists. At a meeting of foreign ministers, Secretary Powell pressed the administration's case for abandoning the 1972 treaty.
What contrast can be made between the two passages?
A. Passage 1 is about Maryland's history; passage 2 is about Maryland's geography.
B. Both passages are about Maryland.
C. They both give information about California.
D. Passage 1 is about England; passage 2 is about Maryland.