Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
The West and Russia need to embark on a long and potentially rocky path toward creating a security community in Europe that would include both NATO members and nonmembers.
Former Secretary of State George Shultz discussed his views on global disarmament, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the question of America's decline, and the future direction of American foreign policy.
By embracing a soft power foreign policy fueled by a new focus on economic, intellectual and social renewal, Russia can emerge as a serious and indispensable global actor.
The Iranian regime continues to imprison innocent people and impose harsh sentences on them. As moderates who might be sympathetic to reformers are purged from regime’s ranks, engaging with leaders on behalf of prisoners has only become more difficult.
The reality is that many Afghans see Kabul as part of the problem, and a runoff election is unlikely to change that. If the new Afghan government is to earn public support, and NATO is to find a way out of Afghanistan, a civilian surge will be vital.
The Taliban are mostly local, accepted by the Afghan population. Most are basically farmers. They know what they stand for, and they view the foreigners as a threat to their families and their values.
The Russian, Israeli, Iranian and U.S. positions on Iran’s nuclear ambitions are open to several interpretations. The most realistic endgame scenario to best serve the chief interests of all players is one in which Iran maintains the ability to produce a nuclear weapon but refrains from testing one.
The upcoming Afghan runoff election has some hoping for a popularly elected legitimate government. However, most Afghans don't like their options enough to vote, and it will be easy for officials to fabricate the results.
The cultural misunderstandings between Western forces and the Afghan people make it unlikely any counterinsurgency mission in the countryside will succeed.
The triangular relationship between the United States, Taiwan, and China is likely to continue on a stable trajectory as all sides try to avoid unnecessary friction and emphasize cooperation.