Why Did Vladimir Putin Invade Ukraine?
Why did Putin invade Ukraine? Western analysts, commentators and officials have put forth eight differing but complementary theories try to explain Putin’s actions, motives and objectives.
Geopolitics
Germany, in Historic Reversal, Abandons Pro-Putin Russia Policy
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced a paradigm shift in German defense and energy policies in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He said that Germany will substantially increase defense spending and take immediate measures to reduce its energy dependence on Russia.
Biden Administration Kills Israel-to-Europe Gas Pipeline
The Biden administration has abruptly withdrawn American support for the Eastern Mediterranean (EastMed) pipeline, a project aimed at shipping natural gas from Israel to European markets.
The Russia-China Axis of Authoritarianism: Part I
A failure to deter Russia and China — revisionist authoritarian powers seeking to establish a post-Western global order that extols autocracy over democracy — would deal a potentially crushing blow to the post-World War II liberal international order.
Russia to NATO: Commit Suicide or Face War
Russia has threatened war if the United States and its NATO allies fail to comply — unconditionally — with sweeping demands for a new security arrangement in Europe.
Germany’s New Government: Business as Usual with China
Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has had his first telephone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Scholz, who succeeded Angela Merkel on December 8, pledged to strengthen economic ties with China, but failed to mention human rights or the destruction of democracy in Hong Kong.
Lithuania Stands Up to China
China has blocked all imports from Lithuania and has ordered multinational companies to sever ties with the Baltic country or face being shut out of the Chinese market.
What Russia Wants in Ukraine
A massive build-up of Russian troops along the Ukrainian border is fueling speculation of an imminent invasion. Western leaders have warned Russian President Vladimir Putin against military action, but they appear divided and weak and may be unable to stop him.
European Army: Rhetoric versus Reality
European federalists seeking to transform the 27-member European Union into a European superstate — a so-called United States of Europe — have revived a decades-old proposal to build a European army.
AUKUS Security Alliance Exposes EU’s Fecklessness
Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have announced a new tripartite strategic alliance aimed at countering China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
Biden Administration “Surrenders” to Germany on Russian Gas Pipeline
The Biden administration has reached an agreement with German Chancellor Angela Merkel that allows for the completion of a controversial natural gas pipeline between Russia and Germany.
European Parliament Freezes Ratification of China Investment Treaty
The European Parliament has halted ratification of a controversial investment treaty with China until Beijing lifts sanctions on European lawmakers, academics and think tanks. The move, a rare display of fortitude by an institution notorious for vacillation, reflects a hardening stance in Europe toward the Chinese Communist Party.
