Transatlantic Effort to Impose Fiscal Restraint
American and European conservatives push for balanced budget amendments, hoping to force their governments to cut spending.
Western Europe
Merkel, Sarkozy Propose Eurozone Governance
The French and German leaders favor firmer debt and deficit limits.
After Libya, Europe’s New Order in the Making
A new balance of power is forming in Europe, one that is eerily familiar.
Left Blames Austerity for British Riots
Predictably, leftists are blaming the riots in the United Kingdom on conservative budget-cutting.
What’s at the Root of London’s Riots
Decades of welfarism have fostered an entitlement mentality.
Sarkozy Fails to Revitalize French Economy
The French president’s economic policies have been unconvincing. His country remains uncompetitive compared to many of its neighbors.
We Used to Fight “Wars of Whim” All the Time
Libya is not the exception. Carefully prepared interventions and conflicts are.
Austerity Could Improve European Defense
Although America spends more on defense than Europe does, the problem is not that Europe’s defense capacity is too small.
Just How Bad Are Britain’s Spending Cuts?
Unions protest, but no “reckless” cuts have yet been made.
Could the Harrier Have Made a Difference?
Britain’s First Sea Lord argues that a carrier would have made the Libyan mission more effective. Chris Revell is skeptical.
France Calls for Middle East Peace Conference
American support for a French Middle East conference may dissuade the Palestinians from seeking recognition of statehood at the UN.
The Ants and the Grasshoppers
Strategic ambiguity from great powers compels middle powers to seize the initiative.
Electricity Costs Rising in the United Kingdom
As coal and nuclear face scrutiny for environmental reasons, Britain becomes more dependent on natural gas, driving up the price.
Gates Criticizes European Defense Ineptitude
The outgoing defense secretary urges European NATO allies to boost their military prowess.
Discord Characterizes American-German Relations
Angela Merkel visits the United States at a time of considerable differences in a vital transatlantic relationship.