Patton and the Russian General (scene, history, ending)

[PostSecularist]

Translator: The general would like to know if you will drink a toast with him.
Patton: Thank the general and tell him I have no desire to drink with him or any other Russian son of a *****.
Translator: [Nervous] I can't tell him that!
Patton: Tell him, every word.
Translator: [In Russian] He says he will not drink with you or any Russian son of a *****.
Russian general: [In Russian] Tell him he is a son of a *****, too. Now!
Translator: [Very nervous] He says he thinks you are a son of a *****, too.
Patton: [laughing] All right. All right, tell him I'll drink to that; one son of a ***** to another.

I always liked this scene in Patton, between current allies and future enemies/rivals. My interpretation of the scene is that Patton wouldn't drink because they're allies, but because of a mutual respect and understanding that are enemies beneath the veneer of diplomacy and joint victory. Do you guys agree that's why Patton drank with the Russian general in the end? Or do you have another interpretation?

[goodtimes59]

Great movie and a great scene. I think he believed the old thought process of "keeping your enemies closer" deal. He didnt trust him, just look at his eyes! They tell everything.

[PostSecularist]

If it was the keeping your enemies closer bit, Patton would have agreed the first time. Patton was risking an incident by declining and insulting the Russian general...

[BlackShoe]

Patton detested the Soviets, and, as most history buffs know, wanted to fight them after the Germans were defeated. If that scene actually happened, it would have been Patton's way of expressing contempt, and then, by agreeing to a drink, being patronizing and condescending.