Defense Minister: Spending Cuts Put Dutch Security at Risk
Left-wing opposition parties and most Dutch voters don’t mind deeper defense cuts.
Europe
Dutch Premier Promises Tax Relief Before Election
Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s liberals are neck in neck with the far-left Socialists in the polls.
We Didn’t Start the Fire: Stop Blaming Sykes-Picot
The 1916 treaty between Britain and France can’t account for Syria’s problems altogether.
Germany, Poland Oppose Stricter Emission Rules
Poland’s environment minister threatens to block higher carbon taxes.
Opposition to Euro Membership Growing in Italy
Fringe parties in Italy are advocating a withdrawal from the single currency area.
Netherlands “Obstructive” in Europe, Rutte “Impotent”
European officials criticize the “obstructive” role of Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte.
France’s Hollande Putting Off Tough Budget Decisions
François Hollande has raised taxes on the rich but is delaying tough spending and tax measures.
European Central Bank President Draws Line in Sand
Mario Draghi insists Italy and Spain will have to apply for a bailout first.
Spain Bringing Stormy Economic Weather This Summer
The European Central Bank is expected to help Spain address its economic woes.
Greek Leaders Debate Cuts, Debt Restructuring Looms
With Greece’s leaders close to a budget deal, European officials consider further debt reduction.
European Central Bank Signals Willingness to Intervene
Mario Draghi appears to open the door to further action to stave off the prospect of the euro’s collapse.
Why Mitt Romney Isn’t Forgetting Poland
Poland is a key strategic partner for America in order to balance against the rise of a German-Russian axis.
Potential Dutch Downgrade Heightens Euroskepticism
Dutch’s perception that they are bailing out euro states at their expense is reinforced.
Europe’s Energy Chief Urges Deepwater, Shale Drilling
Günther Oettinger says Europe suffers from a competitive advantage because it is more risk-averse than America.
European Banking Union Step Toward “Transfer Union”
The interconnectedness of European banks and states necessitates closer union.