On the eve of Trump’s visit to China, the outline of a new Cold War looms larger. Only the Holy See might help. In November 2011, President Barack Obama launched the historic “Pivot to Asia.” After centuries of focus on transatlantic relations, the US shifted its attention to the Asia-Pacific (and to China in particular), […]
A US-EU Royal bridge
Can the UK bridge the widening transatlantic gap? Beyond Trump’s intemperance, many American complaints about Europe are real and are driving the old continent adrift. Can King Charles bring new unity between the two sides of the Atlantic, now drifting apart more than ever? The time is momentous. He goes to the US next week […]
The Geopolitics of the Heart of Christ
The Church has moved in a few years from being under siege to becoming the belle of the ball. Adapting is difficult for both the Church and the world, but everybody needs it. US President Donald Trump tells the Pope how to behave. A Defense official gives the nuncio a history lesson on Avignon. Vice […]
Trump needs Canossa
The clash between the US president and the Pope is the first for America, but not for the Vatican and Western history. A thousand years ago, by repenting, a holy emperor re-established his clout. Is there an old lesson for the modern emperors? US culture was born largely Christian, and in opposition to the Pope. […]
Iran choked in the Strait
As the first round of negotiations between the US and Iran failed, Chinese interests may loom larger, and Tehran may need a deal with America more than ever. The Iran of the ayatollahs has institutional and strategic depth. The institutional depth was evident after the attack in mid-June of last year. The regime did not […]
A guide to handle the Pope
Italy’s long experience can be useful to the US in coping with the Church. The bishop of Rome won’t yield to pressure but will help a sinner. It must have been a very embarrassing moment. Reportedly, an American official shook the Papal Nuncio with the possibility of ‘Avignon’, the town where, in the 15th century, […]



