Defying Madrid, Catalonia Votes on Statehood
Spain’s richest region votes in a “consultation,” defying a constitutional court ban.
Obama’s “War on Coal” Is Final Straw for Appalachia Democrats
Appalachian Mountain voters were never liberal. Now they’ve definitively switched to Republicans.
Britain Can’t Count on Dutch for Reforms in Europe
When push comes to shove, the Netherlands will always back Germany over the United Kingdom.
Some Good Might Come of the Islamic State
The Islamic State’s fanaticism might mark the complete and final failure of political Islam.
Obama Deceitful on Keystone XL Pipeline
There is no “independent process” going on. The president should make up his mind.
Libya Edges Closer to Splitting in Two
The eastern and western halves of Libya look more and more like separate countries.
Renewed Fighting in Donbas as Russia, Ukraine Trade Barbs
Both sides accuse the other of violating a ceasefire, leading to a new round of fighting in southeastern Ukraine.
Fresh Hope for Compromise as Republicans Take Senate
It might be in both parties’ interest to produce some compromises in the next two years.
Spain Strikes Down Election, Leaves Catalonia Little Choice
Spain leaves separatists in Catalonia with little choice but to declare independence outright.
Donbas’ Secession Looks Increasingly Permanent
Continued Russian support and an election make it more difficult to reverse the Ukrainian region’s secession.
Germany No Longer Thinks British EU Exit Unthinkable
Limiting free labor migration in Europe would be too high a price for the Germans to pay.
America, Japan Block Trans Pacific Partnership Progress
Protectionism in both countries is preventing progress on what could be a huge trade agreement.
Russia Wants Guarantees Before Resupplying Gas to Ukraine
Russia wants the European Union to guarantee that it will pay Ukraine’s gas bills before resuming supplies.
Did France, Italy Just Get Away with Breaking the Rules?
France and Italy make small budgets adjustments to avoid a confrontation.
Poland to Shift Military Strength East in Response to Russia
Poland is shifting its military strength to its eastern borders in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.