Emirates Deepen Involvement in Yemen, Saudis Back Islamists
The Emirates step up efforts to push back the Houthis while Saudi Arabia relies on local proxies.
Nick Ottens
Nick Ottens is a public affairs officer for the Dutch Animal Coalition and a board member for Liberal Green, the sustainability network of the Dutch liberal party VVD. He is a former political risk consultant and a former research manager for XPRIZE, where he designed prize competitions to incentivize breakthrough innovation in agriculture, food and health care. He has also worked as a journalist in Amsterdam, Barcelona and New York for EUobserver, NRC, Trouw, World Politics Review and Wynia’s Week, among others.
Southern States Want More Europe, Northerners Wary
Support for ever-closer union remains high in Europe’s south. Northerners want powers back.
Kurdish, Far-Leftist Militants Step Up Violence in Turkey
Kurdish and far-leftist groups carry out a wave of attacks in the wake of a Turkish security crackdown.
Rajoy Takes Lead as Spain’s Protest Parties Wither
Spain’s ruling party seems to be winning back support now that the economy is improving.
Iran May Not Be the Middle East’s Hegemon — Yet
Sanctions and isolation have weakened Iran, but it is still in a strong position to expand its influence in the Middle East.
Turkey’s Commitment to Defeating Islamists in Doubt
It’s hard to say if Turkey supported the self-declared Islamic State, but it isn’t doing much to stop it.
Canada’s Downturn Could See Harper Lose Power
With low oil prices pushing the economy into recession, Canada’s Conservatives could lose power after a decade.
Has the West Abandoned the Kurds? It’s Complicated
There are more than two sides to the conflict.
Don’t Pay Too Much Attention to Donald Trump
At this point, it doesn’t really matter who is ahead in the polls.
French Socialists Not Ready to Replace Hollande
The left-wing leader may be unpopular, but the one candidate who could do better is despised by the party.
French Farmers’ Protests Divide Europe
The Dutch and Germans complain about French policy while Belgian farmers join the protests.
Turkey Seeks to Block Allies from Supporting Kurds
Despite joining the war against the Islamic State, Turkey doesn’t want its allies aiding the group’s Kurdish rivals.
Support for Catalan Separatists Falls Ahead of Decisive Election
As separation from Spain becomes more likely, Catalans think twice about the risks.
Paul May Be Down But His Movement Is Not Out
Republicans would waste an opportunity to broaden their base by spurning Rand Paul’s supporters.
Cameron Advised Not to Call EU Referendum Next Year
An early referendum could end David Cameron’s premiership prematurely.