Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
China is likely to be both a partner and a contender in its relations with the United States, with the depth of its cooperation limited by the extent to which the two countries have overlapping national interests.
At the top of Secretary Clinton's agenda during her visit to Russia is a discussion of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Conflicting messages from President Medvedev and Foreign Minister Lavrov leave the outcome of that discussion in doubt.
Russia and the United States are not likely to come to agreement on the best way to approach Iran’s nuclear ambitions any time soon. This issue is likely to be at the top of Secretary Clinton’s agenda during her time in Moscow.
President's Obama recent Nobel Peace Prize has resulted in skepticism in some circles. His forthcoming acceptance speech offers him the opportunity to capitalize on the award and take steps toward achieving many of his administration's goals.
The Iranian nuclear program continues to be a major foreign policy challenge for the Obama administration. Changing the behavior of the regime will most likely require a change in its character.
Iran's test-firing of a new, more advanced missile type with the capability to reach Israel, Europe or the Persian Gulf has increased tension over the Iranian nuclear program. The missile test will have a profound affect on the upcoming multilateral nuclear talks.
Iran's continued resistance to cooperate with the international community on its nuclear program demonstrates the regime's intransigence, particularly in light of the Obama administration efforts to engage.
The Taliban should not be underestimated. They are an organized and coordinated enemy, and the United States must change its strategy if there is to be any hope of success.
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's return to Washington offers the opportunity to discuss the Egyptian role in the Arab-Israeli peace process and to examine the important issue of succession.
Egyptian President Mubarak's visit to Washington offers the opportunity to discuss Egypt's role in the region in relation to U.S. priorities. Egypt's domestic politics, particularly the succession issue, also will play a role in further U.S.-Egyptian cooperation.