Macron Defends Rules-Based Pacific Order, Five Stars Call for New Elections
The French president rejects hegemony in Asia. Italy’s Five Stars want new elections.
Asia
Don’t Risk War with North Korea: Experts
Experts doubt it’s possible to mount a limited strike without igniting all-out war on the Korean Peninsula.
Why America Should Rethink Its Alliance with South Korea
Circumstances have changed since the Cold War.
Retired Military Chiefs Caution Trump Against North Korea Strike
Retired military officials warn that even a limited strike could have devastating consequences.
China and Russia: True Love or Marriage of Convenience?
Are we seeing the beginning of a global partnership? Or is this only a marriage of convenience?
Saudi Prince Mohammad Misreads the Tea Leaves in Washington
The Saudi crown prince seems to believe Donald Trump’s support is all he needs. That is a mistake.
Crown Prince Breaks Saudi Monarchy’s Two Pacts
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud shatters the family consensus and risks a conflict between mosque and state.
World Won’t Let Catalonia or Kurdistan Come Quietly onto the Map
Independence for Catalonia and Kurdistan would upend the regional order in Europe and the Middle East.
Iraq’s Kurds Deserve the West’s Support for Their Own State
How much longer do they need to wait?
Canceling South Korean Trade Deal Would Be a Mistake
Withdrawing from the treaty would hurt American commerce and set back America’s strategy in East Asia.
After Caliphate’s Fall, A Spending Challenge
Once the Islamic State is defeated, governments will face the challenge of rebuilding.
Saudi Arabia Tries the Waters of Retrenchment
Saudi Arabia’s future king tries to turn down the heat on his conflicts with Qatar and Yemen.
Donald Trump Wants Conflict with Iran
The American is determined to declare Iran noncompliant, whatever the truth.
To Save Saudi Arabia, They Needed a Young King
Great kings can overcome the burdens of geopolitics by force of will and shrewd wisdom. But they need time.
The Weapons of Saudi’s Siege on Qatar
This is a war of elites on elites. The Saudis are targeting the prestige of Qatar’s ruling Al Thani family.