A State Department spokesman learned the hard way Tuesday that sometimes, old talking points don't always fit new situations.

Spokesman Mark Toner was asked if State has a reaction to the decision of Iceland's prime minister to resign after being named in the Panama Papers, which outline schemes that politically connected people used to stash money overseas.

Toner responded with platitudes.

"Iceland is a valued NATO ally, it's a global partner of the United States," he said. "We recognize their strong contributions to the NATO mission in Afghanistan, and their partnership in the counter-ISIL coalition, and Iceland does have a strong commitment to democratic values."

The AP's Matt Lee pressed Toner on exactly how Iceland helps NATO.

"As a valued NATO ally, what's the size of the Icelandic military?" Lee asked.

"It's not always a matter of size, it's capabilities, Matt," Toner replied.

"Right, but I don't think they have one," Lee shot back. Iceland is routinely listed as one of the few countries without a standing military, and is the only NATO country without a military.

Toner's only countermove was to stare down at the podium and wait for the moment to end.