Belgium, Netherlands to Support Air Campaign in Iraq
The two European countries join the war against the Islamic State but stop short of joining airstrikes against Syria.
Military
Arabs, Americans Launch Strikes Against Islamic State
But airstrikes alone are unlikely to defeat the Islamist group.
Netherlands to Reduce Taxes, Raise Defense Spending
The Dutch will keep their deficit under the European treaty limit while reducing taxes to help job creation.
Despite Ceasefire, Fighting in Ukraine’s Donetsk, Mariupol
Less than two days after Ukraine’s government and separatists agreed to a truce, fighting resumes in the east.
France Cancels Warship Sale to Russia After All
François Hollande says the conditions that would allow France to deliver the ship “have so far not been met.”
Russian Troops Enter Ukraine, Advance on Mariupol
Ukraine’s government and NATO say Russian troops have crossed the border and are fighting in the country.
Russia’s Stealth Invasion of Ukraine
To keep Ukraine unstable and weak, Russia needs to make sure the separatists are not defeated.
Egyptian, Emirates Jets Bomb Islamists in Libya
Without informing their American allies, Egypt and the UAE carry out airstrikes near Tripoli.
Russian Trucks Cross Border, Ukraine Denounces “Invasion”
Ukraine condemns as a “flagrant violation of international law” what Russia claims is a humanitarian effort.
Ukrainian Troops Enter Rebel Stronghold, Jet Shot Down
Ukraine says its forces entered the separatist redoubt of Luhansk after a fighter jet was shot down in the area.
Ukraine Claims Destroyed Russian Armored Column
Ukraine claims to have destroyed Russian armored personnel carriers that crossed into its territory.
Russia Sends Aid Convoy to Ukraine, NATO Fears Invasion
As trucks supposedly carrying aid depart for Ukraine, NATO warns there is a “high probability” Russia will invade.
Supported by Iraqi Air Force, Kurds Battle Islamists
In a remarkable turnaround, Iraq’s Nouri al-Maliki supports a Kurdish offensive against radical Islamists insurgents.
Protective Edge: A Change in Israel’s Security Doctrine?
The principle of taking the offensive still has merit for Israel.
Ukraine Pushes Offensive in East, Rebels in Disarray
The speed of the Ukrainian army’s offensive seems to have taken the rebels’ leaders by surprise.