Iran’s Domino Effect
American pressure on Iran is shifting the Eurasian balance in a new direction and could give the US new leverage with China. Yet Beijing is preparing. US forces are converging on Iran, and some action against the Ayatollahs’ regime could occur over the next few days or weeks. It might be intended to weaken the […]
China’s Military Purge
The last demotions wipe the slate clean of the old PLA leadership, calling into question Beijing’s past strategic assessments as well. It’s unclear what China will think in the future. Official News Agency Xinhua announced on Saturday that Zhang Youxia, China’s highest-ranking general, second only to President Xi Jinping, and PLA (People’s Liberation Army) chief […]
U.S. Cardinals: Questioning Trump’s Politics of Force
Three American cardinals — B.J. Cupich (Chicago), R.W. McElroy (Washington), and J.W. Tobin (Newark) — have signed a joint statement calling for a thorough review of the Trump administration’s international policy. “The events in Venezuela, Ukraine, and Greenland have raised fundamental questions about the use of military force and the meaning of peace. The sovereign […]
Greenland or Greenbacks
The twin controversies about the northern island and the FED could undermine the dollar and cast a shadow on the April summit with China. There is no formal link between the two. Yet they are connected in time – the crisis over Greenland, the island that US President Donald Trump wants for America, and the […]
The Pope to the diplomats: let’s save the West
In his first address to the diplomatic corps (January 9), Pope Leo, within a reasoned geopolitical presentation, did not spare criticism of Western culture. It was not to take a leave of it, and even less to give voice to the “quasi-religious” right, but rather so that it may have a role in the world’s […]
Troubles with History – and the Present
Beijing may face challenges in using history to advance its claims, while the US may face them regarding its future standing in the world China likes to use history to make its political points. But it may no longer work. History is helpful as an example to tell contemporary people that something from the past […]



