Berlusconi Ally Says Austerity “Failed,” Italy Must Cut Taxes
Former conservative minister blames Mario Monti’s “German” policies for Italy’s recession.
French Opposition Rivals Agree to New Leadership Vote
The leadership battle on the French right comes to an end with a plan to call a revote.
Violence in North Iraq Despite Agreement to Diffuse Tension
A second day of violence in territories that are disputed between Baghdad and the Kurds.
Merkel Chastises Opposition for Blocking Tax Relief
“Incomprehensible” that the left should block tax cuts, says the German chancellor.
Japan’s Abe Proposes Foreign, Monetary Policy Changes
Shinzō Abe returns the Liberal Democrats to government with a resounding victory.
Brzezinski’s Strategic Vision Rather Short on Vision
The former national security advisor disappoints with his latest book.
Despite Judges Boycott, Egypt Votes on New Constitution
Egyptians vote in the first round of a constitutional referendum.
Obama Considering Centrists for Top Cabinet Positions
John Kerry and Chuck Hagel are rumored to be among the top contenders for cabinet posts.
Pentagon: Success in Afghanistan “Mixed Bag”
The Defense Department cites success and failure in Afghanistan in the last six months.
Russia Admits Syria’s Assad May Be Losing Control
Russia doesn’t exclude a rebel victory in Syria, so it has to plan for a future without Assad.
Britain, Sweden Opt Out Centralized Banking Oversight
Countries in the eurozone centralize financial supervision. Britain and Sweden are skeptical.
North Korea Surprises World with Successful Rocket Launch
Launch comes mere days after the regime announced a delay due to technical difficulties.
Iraq Challenges Saudi Arabia, Resists Oil Production Cut
The kingdom tries to put the squeeze on an Iraq that is emboldened by rising oil output.
American Monetary Policy Doesn’t Stimulate Job Growth
Unemployment won’t come down as long as the Fed tries to stem the deleveraging process.
Fillon Supports New Leadership Primary on French Right
The former premier calls for a revote, but says he will “probably” not stand for election.