Dutch Lose High Credit Rating as Taxes Depress Confidence
“Austerity” in the Netherlands has mostly meant tax increases for businesses and workers.
News
Germany’s Right-Wing Press Decries Social Democrats’ “Victory”
Conservatives criticize Angela Merkel’s concessions, but the left isn’t happy either.
Germany Rolls Back Labor Reforms, Sticks to Hard Line in Europe
Angela Merkel will soften some of her labor policies, but not her hard line in Europe.
Senate Threatens More Sanctions as Iran Talks Resume
Lawmakers plan new sanctions against Iran, regardless of what progress is made in Geneva.
Thai Government Destabilized by Protests, Border Dispute
Opposition protests and an international court ruling in Cambodia’s favor pose serious challenges.
Ukraine Suspends Europe Trade Talks, Turns to Russia
Russia’s stick seems to have made more of an impression in Kiev than the European Union’s carrots.
Forces Defeat Rebels at Qara, Retake Damascus-Homs Highway
Bashar Assad’s regime restores a critical line of communication to supply its operations in the north.
Leftist Bachelet Wins Chile’s Election, But Faces Runoff
The former president promises to undertake ambitious education and tax reforms.
Maduro Asks Decree Powers as Venezuela Inflation Soars
The president promises to use his special powers to crack down on “bourgeois parasites.”
Danish Nationalists Reject Alliance with Dutch, French
Without the Danish People’s Party, nationalists in France and the Netherlands lack enough allies.
Fueled by Green Policy, Corn Production Hurts Environment
Corn production for ethanol across the Midwestern United States is raising carbon dioxide emissions.
Libyan Berber Militia Shuts Undersea Gas Exports to Italy
Militants block natural gas exports to pressure the central government into recognizing their heritage.
Business Leaders: Ever-Closer European Union Has Failed
Some of Europe’s largest companies urge national leaders to reduce barriers to business activity and trade.
Germans Reject Criticism of Export-Driven Growth
Germany sees its trade surplus as proof of a sound economic policy.
Saudi Nuclear Weapons “Sitting Ready for Delivery” in Pakistan
The oil kingdom might acquire nuclear weapons before its nemesis Iran does — from its old friend Pakistan.