Independence Sentiment Aroused in French Catalonia
The referendum in Spain and administrative changes in France have given North Catalans pause.
Europe
Polls Vindicate Puigdemont’s Decision to Form Separatist List
The deposed Catalan president is more popular than his old party.
Italy’s Small Left Rejects Pact, Making Defeat More Likely
By refusing to do a deal with the center-left, Pier Luigi Bersani makes a populist or right-wing victory more likely.
Don’t Panic: Merkel Still Has Options
The collapse of three-party talks is a setback, not the end of the world.
German Coalition Talks Collapse as Free Democrats Walk Out
Christian Lindner argues it is better not to govern than to govern in the wrong way.
Brexit’s Broken Promises
Leaving the EU is not unleashing growth. There is no extra money for health care.
Progress in German Coalition Talks, But Four Sticking Points
The parties still disagree about coal power, Europe and immigration.
Catalan Socialists Choose Opposition Over Deal with Separatists
Miquel Iceta condemns his party to four more years in opposition by refusing deals with both separatists and unionists.
Rajoy Walks Back Promise of Constitutional Reform
The conservative’s intransigence gives credence to separatists who argue Spain will never respect Catalonia.
Italy’s Leftists Open Door to Necessary Alliance
The left won’t stand a chance divided, but it will be hard to set aside personal feuds and policy differences.
Don’t Exaggerate Russian Meddling in the Catalan Independence Crisis
Yes, Russia tried to exacerbate the crisis, but it didn’t create Catalan separatism.
EU Countries Deepen Military Cooperation Outside NATO
Countries agree to raise defense spending and pool procurement.
Pressure Builds on May As Brexit Hardliners Close Ranks
More and more Conservatives want Theresa May gone.
British Reject Plan to Keep Northern Ireland in Customs Union, Single Market
The Irish argue for integration, but hardliners in London can’t abide an “all-island” approach.
Conservatives Pay Price for Putting Party Before Country
Conservatives have allowed the need for intraparty unity to prevail over the nationalist interest.