Italian Parties Draw Battle Lines Ahead of Election
The left rules out the right. The far left rules out the center-left. The Five Stars rule out everybody. How will Italy be governed?
Trump Cedes Initiative to China and Russia
The American allows China to take the lead in technology and Russia the lead in postwar Syria.
Independence Sentiment Aroused in French Catalonia
The referendum in Spain and administrative changes in France have given North Catalans pause.
Polls Vindicate Puigdemont’s Decision to Form Separatist List
The deposed Catalan president is more popular than his old party.
Italy’s Small Left Rejects Pact, Making Defeat More Likely
By refusing to do a deal with the center-left, Pier Luigi Bersani makes a populist or right-wing victory more likely.
Don’t Panic: Merkel Still Has Options
The collapse of three-party talks is a setback, not the end of the world.
German Coalition Talks Collapse as Free Democrats Walk Out
Christian Lindner argues it is better not to govern than to govern in the wrong way.
New Author Bylines and Country Menu
The author bio has been replaced with a more elegant byline and there is a new country menu in the sidebar.
Brexit’s Broken Promises
Leaving the EU is not unleashing growth. There is no extra money for health care.
Progress in German Coalition Talks, But Four Sticking Points
The parties still disagree about coal power, Europe and immigration.
Catalan Socialists Choose Opposition Over Deal with Separatists
Miquel Iceta condemns his party to four more years in opposition by refusing deals with both separatists and unionists.
No Shock Therapy: Macri Takes Gradual Approach to Reform
The Argentinian president knows he can’t afford to ruffle too many feathers.
Rajoy Walks Back Promise of Constitutional Reform
The conservative’s intransigence gives credence to separatists who argue Spain will never respect Catalonia.
Italy’s Leftists Open Door to Necessary Alliance
The left won’t stand a chance divided, but it will be hard to set aside personal feuds and policy differences.
Don’t Exaggerate Russian Meddling in the Catalan Independence Crisis
Yes, Russia tried to exacerbate the crisis, but it didn’t create Catalan separatism.