Force and Reason: Advice from a Mongol Khan to Pope Francis

The “force of reason” and the “reason of force” have been central to the relationship between ideology/religion and political/military power in Europe and the Mediterranean—and later the world—for millennia. The combined strength of the Aristotelian argument and the Macedonian phalanx enabled not only the rapid conquests of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC […]

A Way for the Pope with Israel?

The Pope’s decision to declare October 7th a day of fasting is a farsighted warning on a historical level. The fast shows the world public opinion of three important facts: The terrorist violence of Hamas and Hezbollah as well as the recent missile attacks by Iran against Israel have distanced the prospect of a Palestinian […]

Does China need a Grand Strategy?

China might need a new Grand Strategy for the first time since the 3rd century BC unification, but it is quite elusive. Italy has parallel issues, and there could be lessons to be learned there. “Here begins our tale. The Empire, long divided, must unite; long united, must divide. Thus it has ever been. In […]

The Transformation of Intelligence. The Pager Case by Marco Mayer

The recent attacks against Hezbollah reveal a significant evolution in the operational methods of intelligence agencies in response to hybrid threats that challenge the traditional boundaries between public and private, national and international. For this reason, a radical reform of the organization of other intelligence services is also needed towards a more integrated and multidisciplinary […]

Peace in Ukraine and Chaos for the World?

Is peace in Ukraine possible soon? The American elections are pivotal, of course. If Donald Trump wins, he has said he’ll achieve peace quickly. However, even if Kamala Harris is elected (as recent polls suggest is more likely), Russian President Vladimir Putin may seek a compromise, facing the prospect of four more years of fighting […]

A Lebanese Operation for Ukraine?

The Israeli land operation in Lebanon is opening up new perspectives on the war in Ukraine and tensions with China. If Iran pulls back, peace in Ukraine could also become easier. As its hostages are still held in Gaza with no quick solution in sight, Israel is preparing for a land operation in Lebanon against […]

The EU’s Challenge with Chinese Electric Vehicles

The European Union faces significant challenges in dealing firmly with China’s electric vehicle industry. Predictions suggest that the EU may eventually lower some tariffs or abandon them altogether, highlighting broader difficulties the Union currently faces. The EU is at a critical historical juncture. The recently published Draghi report argues for increased political integration and stronger […]