Sanctions Options
The Least Bad Option in Venezuela

It might be more satisfying to try to punish Maduro’s odious regime more forcefully. But the current, measured, targeted sanctions are the best way forward.

the google affair
When Identity Politics Turns a Profit

A Columbia historian’s new book gives insight into the crisis at Google.

Qatar Crisis
UAE Boycotts Western Banks With Qatari Ties

The UAE steps its embargo of Qatar up another notch by penalizing foreign banks with Qatari ties. It’s a bold move, but has the potential to backfire.

ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP/Getty Images
Sovereignty Redux
Germany and the Return of a Europe of Nations

The growth of “populism” in European politics is better described as a response by Europe’s populations to Germany’s increasingly dominant position on the Continent.

Science Says
One of These Things Is Not Like the Other

What a leaked report on climate science tells us about the link between extreme weather and climate change.

Asia's Game of Thrones
China Lays Down Tracks in Malaysia

Beijing has cut the ribbon on an ambitious railway project across Malaysia—but it’s risky business for both parties.

ABBAS MOMANI/AFP/Getty Images
Israel-Palestine
The End of the Abbas Era

The aging leader tried to capitalize on his people’s unrest by taking unprecedented steps against Israel. Instead, he may have just made the argument against his rule even stronger.

ATTA KENARE/AFP/Getty Images
Rouhani’s Road to Ruin

If history is any indicator, then an escalating rift between Iran’s Supreme Leader and its recently reelected President will end up bolstering Khamenei and his allies at the expense of Rouhani.

Getty Images
Sticks and Stones
The Right Nightmare

The war of words between Trump and Kim Jong-un isn’t the nightmare that should keep you up at night.

© Getty Images
Hired Guns
Mercenaries Are a Bad Idea for Afghanistan

The Trump administration appears to be taking proposals to privatize the war in Afghanistan very seriously. It’s a bad idea.

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