Rapprochement with Russia: What’s In It for Us?
Russophiles argue for an accord with Vladimir Putin’s Russia.
Europe
Germans Refuse to Panic After Berlin Terrorist Attack
Few blame Angela Merkel and her immigration policy for the terrorist attack in Berlin.
2016 in Geopolitical Review
2016 was a good year for authoritarians and delivered blow after blow to liberal democracy.
Greece Tries to Weasel Out of Spending Commitments Again
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras announces higher spending without consulting his bailout monitors.
Poland’s Law and Justice Party Finally Went Too Far
For the first time, the party backs away from illiberal reforms in the face of opposition.
Rutte Persuades EU Leaders to Rule Out Membership for Ukraine
The Dutch prime minister hopes a promise to keep Ukraine out will satisfy Euroskeptics.
French Socialists Could Make Same Mistake as Britain’s
The Socialists would cede the center ground by nominating a far-left firebrand like Arnaud Montebourg.
The French Far Right’s Family Feud Explained
Historical and geographical divisions help explain why the Le Pens are at odds.
Wilders’ Negativity an Opportunity for Optimist Rutte
The Dutch prime minister has more faith in his country than Freedom Party voters.
Italy’s Renzi Plots Return to Power After Referendum Defeat
The outgoing prime minister seeks early elections in order to stop enemies in his own party from toppling him.
European Social Democrats Warm to Coalitions with Far Left
From Lisbon to Berlin, center-left parties are breaking the taboo on pacts with the far left.
Wonder Boy Asscher Could Disappoint Dutch Labor Party
Like Labor leaders before him, Lodewijk Asscher is hailed as a future prime minister. He may not live up to expectations.
Netherlands’ Wilders Attacks Court After Discrimination Verdict
The controversial anti-Islam politician calls the legitimacy of Dutch courts into question.
Merkel Proposes to Ban the Burqa: Why and Why Now?
The German leader was never a multiculturalist.
Support for Early Elections Grows in Italy
Angelino Alfano, head of the junior ruling party, suggests snap elections could be held in February.