Andrei G. Karlov Is Not Franz Ferdinand
Geopolitics shape events, not the other way around. The assassination does not upset Russo-Turkish relations.
Explainer
The French Far Right’s Family Feud Explained
Historical and geographical divisions help explain why the Le Pens are at odds.
Joining Assad and Russia Against Islamic State Is Foolish
Donald Trump’s pact doesn’t make sense. Neither Assad nor Russia is interested in defeating the Islamists.
Why Taiwan Could (Still) Start World War III
If Donald Trump pushes China too far, its leaders may feel they have no choice but to respond.
Merkel Proposes to Ban the Burqa: Why and Why Now?
The German leader was never a multiculturalist.
What Just Happened in America?
America did not change. It was manipulated by a minority that seeks a return to autarky and America First.
What Did Walloons Get from Resisting Canada Trade Pact?
Belgium asks for a review of investor-state tribunals and an evaluation of the treaty’s environmental impact.
There Are Basically Three Ways Brexit Can Go
So long as neither Britain nor the EU is willing to compromise, a “hard” exit is the likely outcome.
Why the Hell Is Yemen Shooting at the United States Navy?
The war in Yemen has three dimensions, only one of which directly affects the United States.
Why Uzbekistan Is a Bellwether of Stability in Central Asia
Ethnically homogenous and rich in resources, Uzbekistan can afford some independence from Russia.
Turkey’s Intervention in Syria: Why and Why Now?
Why did Turkey chose this moment to drive a wedge between Islamic State and Kurdish militants in Syria?
Why “Fundamentals” Are Irrelevant in This Election
Normally, economic conditions are a good indicator of who will win the White House. Not this year.
How Culture Keeps the Russians and Ukrainians Steps Away from War
The two Slavic peoples are willing to suffer far more than Westerners for their perceived national interests.
Why Turkey Is Drifting from the West
Turkish and Western interests have diverged since the Soviet Union collapsed.
Blue-Red State Comparisons Can Be Misleading
Comparing one set of states against another does not necessarily tell us which policies are better.