Catalans Vote for Independence in Controversial Referendum
Analysis and opinion about the controversial independence vote in Catalonia.
Atlantic Sentinel
The Atlantic Sentinel is Nick Ottens' opinion blog and newsletter about the politics of France, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States.
Merkel Wins Reelection But Will Need More Parties to Govern
The Christian Democrats would need the support of the liberals and Greens.
Liberal Free Democrats Would Keep Merkel Sharp
The Christian Democrats sometimes lean toward complacency. The Free Democrats would keep them sharp.
May to Stay in Power with Support of Northern Irish Unionists
Conservatives lost their majority in the election.
Conservatives Lose Majority in British Election
Theresa May’s gamble backfires.
Liberal Democrats Are Least Bad Option in Britain’s Election
The Conservatives and Labour are living in the past.
Emmanuel Macron Wins Election in France
The centrist former economy minister defeats the far right’s Marine Le Pen.
France Eyes Macron-Le Pen Runoff After First Voting Round
Analysis and commentary about the first presidential voting round in France.
Elect Macron to Move France Forward
The former economy minister can make France confident and competitive again.
Trump Strikes Syrian Base in Wake of Chemical Attack
Analysis and commentary about Donald Trump’s first direct military action against Bashar Assad.
The European Union at Sixty Reading List
A selection of our stories about the present state and future of Europe.
Dutch Mainstream Defeats Populist Geert Wilders
Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s liberal party remains the largest. Geert Wilders underperforms.
Austrians Elect Left-Wing President, Italians Vote Renzi Out
Alexander Van der Bellen defeats the far right. Matteo Renzi resigns after losing a referendum.
Conservative Fillon Triumphs in French Center-Right Primary
Voters pick the socially conservative François Fillon over the pro-European centrist Alain Juppé.
World Comes to Terms with Shock Trump Victory
Reaction to Donald Trump’s victory ranges from panic to glee.